Preparing for Baby Articles

  • Three keys to pregnancy and birth

    Sarah Blight recalls the top three lessons she's learned about being pregnant and giving birth. See what she's sharing with you!

  • The "organizer junkie's" guide to getting ready for baby

    There isn't a "one-size fits all" organizational method that works for everyone. But we can help you get the whole "getting ready for baby" experience to be a pleasantly organized one. Find out how!

  • Thanksgiving-inspired names for your baby

    Whether you're expecting a baby born around Thanksgiving or just love this festive time of the year, one of these unique Thanksgiving-inspired names may be perfect for your baby.

  • Newborn nursery checklist -- essential gear and furniture

    It's almost become a rite of passage -- scrambling to finish the baby's room before the first contraction kicks in. Our newborn nursery list can help you win that race!

  • Create a safe environment for your baby

    During your pregnancy you make sure your baby has all the building blocks to grow and develop and avoided things that might be harmful. Your next goal is providing a quality environment for your baby-to-be.

  • Top ten things not to include on your baby registry

    Not all baby products are created equal. Some are absolute lifesavers; others are nothing more than expensive frills. We've asked parents to let us know which products their baby could definitely live without.

  • Get Your Finances Ready for Baby

    Whether you have a baby on board or are just thinking about getting pregnant, this checklist can help you plan your finances so you're covered when your baby arrives.

  • Top 10 New Trends for Baby Showers

    Tired of the same old games? Good news! Savvy moms and friends are changing things up -- with unique baby showers. Here's a peek at some fun trends for 2012!

  • NIH Study Links Cadmium and Lead in Blood to Delays in Pregnancy

    According to a new study by researchers at the National Institutes of Health and other academic research institutions, higher blood levels of cadmium in females, and higher blood levels of lead in males, are creating delays in trying to conceive children.

  • Top 10 Baby Registry Must-Haves

    The items on your baby registry let friends and family -- especially those living far away -- which baby gear fits your lifestyle. Head off and build it, with our Pregnancy.org member's essential baby gear list.

  • Circumcision: Not Just a Little Snip

    Circumcision is as American as apple pie. For the most part, it is not questioned but rather accepted as the standard of care given to newborn babies. Why is this the case?

  • Help Your Baby Breastfeed Before It's Even Born

    A growing body of research reveals profound connections between a woman's birth experience and her ability to get breastfeeding off to a good start. But if you think of putting your baby to your breast as the fourth stage of labor it can help you visualize this connection.

  • How to Select a Safe Baby Crib / Baby Bed

    A baby crib is most likely at the top of your list of things you will need for your new baby. With all of the different styles and features, it can be a daunting task to pick the safest and best crib for your new family member.

  • Preparing Clothing, Furniture, and Accessories for Your Baby

    Weeks 33-36 of your pregnancy is a good time to plan for some special needs and concerns that will be important after your baby is born. The following items will be necessary and/or convenient for the everyday care of your baby:

  • Choosing a Hospital and Doctor

    There are major differences in the way doctors and hospitals approach pregnancy and delivery. I'd like to spend the next few minutes making you a savvy consumer. The hospital is the most important choice you will make with regards your pregnancy. Is it baby friendly? Can it care for preterm babies? Take these and more into consideration when making your decision.

  • C.C.: A Story of Courage

    by C.C. Howell

  • Cord Blood Facts

    Cord blood is a non-controversial source of "stem cells," which has the ability to differentiate into any type of blood cell and stimulate new growth throughout the body. It is being used in the treatment of over 40 life-threatening diseases.

  • Rules of Thumb - Choosing Baby's Name

    From Aaliyah to Zvi, the range of name choices is dazzling. If you're a sleepless parent-to-be, it can look like a vast landscape with no road map. To make sure you keep your bearings, here are some basic principles for understanding names -- and finding that one perfect name that speaks to your heart.

  • Baby Stuff: What Do You Need?

    Just what exactly do babies really need? And here's the mercenary question we all asked when we saw the price tags -- how much can we expect other people to buy for us?

  • Baby Bargains: Ten Sure-Fire Ways to Save Big Bucks on Baby Gear

    You've no doubt seen all the scary statistics on the costs of raising children -- numbers that may very well have you second-guessing your decision to toss your birth control pills in the trash! Starting a family doesn't have to lead to financial ruin. There are plenty of practical steps you can take to minimize the impact on your family's budget. Here are a few ideas.