Health Tip: Getting Ready for Birth

Stages of Pregnancy Slideshow

(HealthDay News) -- The nursery is ready, the tiny outfits washed, and the infant seat is installed in the car.

Not so fast. Before you leave for the hospital, the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says you should also make these preparations:

• Know your doctor's phone number for any time of day.
• Understand what your doctor requires when you're in labor, including whether you should immediately go to the hospital or take other special action.
• Figure out how long it takes to get to the hospital, as well as how you're going to get there.
• Consider how long the trip will take based on time of day, such as during rush hour.
• Make sure you have made arrangements for other children and pets.
• Prepare to tell your employer that you've gone into labor and are about to deliver. Arrange to have your duties handled by someone else while you're on maternity leave.

-- Diana Kohnle

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