Things to Get Ready for While You're Pregnant

Decisions About Raising Child

• You likely have ideas about how you want to raise your baby once she arrives, but your partner may have different notions. A discussion about topics such as breastfeeding, day care, immunizations and who will handle diaper duty, prevents disagreements down the road. For example, you may plan to return to work after maternity leave, while your spouse feels strongly that you should stay home with your baby. Some decisions require follow-through before your little one is born. If she will go to day care, you need to interview and choose a care provider. If you plan to delay immunizations, you need to find a pediatrician who supports that decision.

Nursery Prep

• Whether she has her own suite or a tiny corner of your room, your newborn needs her own space ready for her arrival. The most basic requirement is a safe place for your newborn to rest her head -- typically a crib or bassinet. Buying a new crib is the best option to ensure it meets federal safety standards. You also want to have other gear purchased, assembled and ready to go before the birth. This may include a changing table, dresser, clothing, diapers, bathing supplies, feeding supplies and a baby swing. You also need an infant car seat that meets federal requirements. Like the crib, your baby's car seat is best purchased new so you don't have to question its history or the safety of your newborn.

Financial Arrangements

• You likely already started seeing the dollar signs along with the positive pregnancy test, but now is the time to face the numbers in a concrete way. You are better able to prepare financially if you have a solid estimate of what your newborn will cost. The labor and delivery costs are one of the first expenses. Check with the insurance company to determine your estimated out-of-pocket cost. Starting a life insurance policy or increasing coverage is a smart financial move when you add to the family. Review your existing coverage to determine if you need more life insurance. Other baby expenses include the gear, day care and recurring expenses such as diapers and formula.

Home, Pet and Child Care

• The nursery isn't the only consideration when preparing the home. You may need to rearrange furniture in other rooms to fit the new gear into the home. For example, your husband's favorite worn recliner may have to go into storage to make room for a baby swing or portable crib in the living room. Stocking up on pantry items and freezer meals gives you a break when you return from the hospital with your newborn. Grab other staples, such as toilet paper and soap, while you're at the store. If you have pets or older children, part of the pregnancy prep is to arrange for care for them. You need someone physically close who can get to your house quickly, especially if you have a child who needs care.

Labor Prep

• Your baby is coming out somehow, but taking control of the labor process may reduce your fears and make the birth a positive experience. Childbirth and breastfeeding classes are available at most hospitals. You can also pursue private classes for natural birthing methods. Express your wishes for the birth with your prenatal care provider. The health of you and your baby is the priority, so you may not get everything you want if complications arise. Contact your health insurance company to determine if you need to complete a pre-authorization or other paperwork before you arrive at the hospital.