First month

  • Relax and let the good news soak in!
  • Avoid saunas and hot tubs that are too hot for your tiny, growing baby.

Second month

  • Find a doctor whom you can really connect with.
  • Pick up a SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Birthing Center binder from your doctor.
  • Continue to provide your baby with a good growing environment
  • Avoid alcohol, tobacco and all recreational drugs. Use only medications prescribed by your doctor.
  • If morning sickness is a major problem, ask your doctor for help.

Third month

  • Read your SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Birthing Center material (your binder).
  • Fill out and return the pre-registration form to the SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Admissions Desk in the front lobby.
  • Keep doctor appointments and contact your doctor with any problems.
  • If eligible, sign up with Women Infant & Children services.

Fourth month

  • As your body alignment changes, be sure to practice good body mechanics.
  • Consider how you plan to feed your baby.
  • Get your prenatal education from Emmi programs

Fifth and Sixth months

  • Begin thinking about which doctor you want to care for your baby.
  • It’s not too early to think about day care for your baby.
  • Learn more about cord blood donation.
  • Get your prenatal education from Emmi programs

Seventh and Eighth months

  • Continue to keep those all-important doctor appointments.
  • Enjoy the baby showers!
  • Begin the set-up of your baby’s nursery.
  • Make sure you have turned in your pre-registration form.
  • Check with your employer about adding your baby to an insurance plan (if possible.)
  • Get your prenatal education from Emmi programs

Ninth month

  • Finish setting up your baby’s nursery.
  • Pack your suitcase!
  • Talk over your birth plan or birth wishes with your doctor.
  • Make family arrangements for the big day.
  • Try to relax. (We know, that’s hard.) Your life is about to change!