Things to Know Before Giving Birth

1 Know Your Birthing Options

From water birth (Gisele Bundchen's method) to hypnobirthing, there is a means to suit every woman's style.

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2 Understand Pain Management Options

Image Source: Flickr user Aaron Fulkerson

Whether a mama-to-be plans on numbing the birthing experience or the final moments, know your labor and delivery drug options.

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3 Selecting Baby's Name

Image Source: Flickr user Lars Plougmann

Our readers chose Luca and Vivian as their favorite new celebrity baby names last year, but mama probably has a few other monikers on her list. Consider these things before selecting your lil one's name.

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4 Prepare For Your Postpartum Body

Image Source: Flickr user Heather Williams

You probably won't walk out of the hospital wearing your pre-baby jeans. Be prepared for the changes that will occur so you won't be surprised by things like your hair falling out.

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5 How to Pack Your Hospital Bag

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Sure you need some pajamas and toiletries. But if you're planning to nurse, there are additional items you should pack. Before stuffing your suitcase, check out our hospital bag guides.

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6 How to Prepare For a C-Section

Image Source: Flickr user Marc van der Chijs

One-third of all US babies are delivered via C-section these days. Even if your surgical birth isn't scheduled, a mama-to-be should know what a c-section entails. If you think a cesarean birth is in your future, know what to pack in your bag, what to do to ease your recovery, some postpartum surprises that await you, and how to handle comments people make about the method.

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7 If You Are Going to Breastfeed

Image Source: Flickr user Valentina Yachichurova

You'll hear it in your birthing class, throughout the hospital, and from family and friends. Breast is best, but not always as natural as it looks. Check out our mom-to-mom guide to nursing your tot, and don't miss our top tips and hacks.

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8 Have Your Will in Place

Image Source: Flickr user David Morris

Though 36 percent of our readers don't have a will prepared, doing so can alleviate a lot of anguish should the unthinkable happen. Discuss your lil ones' future guardianship and put it all on paper.

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9 Your Maternity Leave Policy

Image Source: Flickr user Napoleon Cole

The US may have some of the least mom-friendly maternity leave laws, but they do exist. Seventy-seven percent of our readers took their full leave. Familiarize yourself with your company's policy.

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10 The Home Birth Option

Image Source: The First Hello Project

All births don't take place in a hospital or birthing center. Learn about the benefits (and risks) of welcoming your little one at home.

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