Preparing for Baby

Decisions, decisions! Once the exciting news of your pregnancy sets in, it's time to sit down and consider these 11 important questions about everything from your birth plan to your baby's name.

Searching for the perfect baby shower gift for twins? These creative and practical ideas will bring the multiples-mom-to-be double the joy.

Many doctors and scientists are behind 20th-century birth ideologies and methods. Learn who's who in modern childbirth philosophy, including Lamaze, Kitzinger, Leboyer, Odent, Balaskas, and Dick-Read.

Pregnant women have many questions to consider before birth about where and how to deliver. See some top birth plan questions that will help you prepare for a smooth labor and delivery.

During pregnancy, prepare for labor and birth before your due date to help with a smooth delivery. Make a birth plan detailing where to have your baby, breathing methods, and pain relief preferences.

Sex is safe during most pregnancies, but you may feel worried or not have the desire. Find ways to stay intimate with your partner, and talk with your doctor about your body changes and concerns.

This crowd-pleasing baby shower game has guests brush up on their nursery rhyme lyrics. Check out these other fun baby shower games.

Print off these baby shower BINGO cards to use at your shower as you unwrap gifts for your soon-to-be baby. Check out these other fun baby shower games.

As a new mother, make a point of sharing parenting responsibilities with your partner.

Find information on all the different types of childbirth classes, including Lamaze, the Bradley Method, and Grantly Dick-Read.

To create a birth plan, think about what you would like to have happen during the labor and delivery of your baby.

Find tips on dressing appropriately in maternity clothes as your belly grows during pregnancy.

A developing fetus begins to hear at about 30 weeks, so start talking to her before she's born!

Get tips on which essentials you should buy for your baby -- before he arrives.

Find tips on dealing with unwelcome pregnancy advice from your mother, your mother-in-law, and your friends.

By Stephanie Sokol

Maternity leave and parental leave laws are different depending on where you live. Here's what new moms should know about taking maternity leave.

Find tips on negotiating your maternity leave in a way that best fits your schedule and finances, as well as maternity leave laws and your company's policy.

If you are pregnant, this article can show you how to calculate the estimated due date of your child.