First trimester (up to 3 months)

• Schedule prenatal screening tests (ask about the new cystic fibrosis screening).
• Review your physician/midwife obstetric fees, laboratory and special test charges.
• Register for a pregnancy class which will answer many of your questions about your pregnancy, including how to cope with the discomforts of pregnancy, nutrition, exercise and your baby's development.

Second trimester (3 to 6 months)

• Receive the Expanded Alpha Feto-Protein (EAFP) blood tests performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy to test for spina bifida, Down syndrome and other birth defects.
• Receive the glucose screening test for gestational diabetes.
• Receive a Rhogam injection, if advised by your health care provider.
• If this is your first baby, it is highly recommended that you enroll in classes that cover preparing for your first baby, understanding preterm labor, childbirth preparation, breastfeeding and newborn parenting.
• Complete the hospital pre-admission.
• Parents of multiples are encouraged to enroll in a class to help prepare for twins, triplets, or more.
• Review your health care coverage for hospitalization, anesthesia and circumcision (if applicable). If you still have questions after consulting with your insurance provider, contact a financial counselor at the facility where you will be delivering.

Third trimester (6 to 9 months)

• Discuss any third trimester blood tests, GBS screening, blood transfusion options and cord blood banking with your health care provider.
• Choose a newborn health care provider before you give birth to your baby.
• Make arrangements to tour the facility you will be delivering at.
• Install car seat correctly.

After your baby arrives

• Attend a support group and/or workshops for new parents sponsored by the facility where you delivered or in your community. Support groups for new parents and breastfeeding mothers can be very helpful, especially if you are having a hard time adjusting to the postpartum phase.
• If you have questions about breastfeeding, contact a lactation consultant.

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