Week 26: Time to think about creating your birth plan and discussing your preferences with your doctor or midwife.
Your center of gravity is changing and may be causing backache. If you are standing in one place for a while, place one foot on a step stool to ease backache.
Now is the time to start discussing labor and birth plans with your care provider. Find out how your doctor or midwife likes to manage the end of pregnancy and labor and birth so there are no surprises.
Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn
The best childbirth classes are usually independent and outside of the hospital. Try looking for independent Lamaze classes at Lamaze International.
Lamaze International
In the United States, more and more women are trading the traditional baby shower for a more meaningful mother blessing ceremony. These ceremonies celebrate a woman's passage into motherhood. Guests may bring gifts for the baby, but the emphasis is on the encouraging, supporting and inspiring the mother. (Lamaze International)
Blessingway Book
Exercise during pregnancy can improve your mood, control your blood pressure and prepare your body for the work of labor, birth and early parenthood. Exercise after baby arrives is an important component of mental health as well.
Mayo Clinic
Thinking about an epidural for labor? Ask your friends and family members what they enjoyed and what they wish had been different about their epidural experiences.
Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Newborn
This book is a nice augmentation to your regular yoga class and does a good job explaining why certain poses are helpful in promoting comfort during pregnancy and readiness for childbirth.