Congratulations!

You have endured the anxiety of those infamous 3 minutes, while waiting for that test to confirm that your life is about to drastically change forever.

All of the emotions running rampant... shock, excitement, nerves like none other, and a whole bunch of questions fill your mind!

Questions like 'When do I go to the doctor?', 'Who should I call first?', and yes 'What do I do now?!' all are part of the flood of thoughts running through your brain.

Let a mom of 4 and a doula help you out!

1) Share that exciting news with your partner, or someone that will be a constant source of emotional support!

Joy, and yes even sorrow, are so much better when shared with people we care about. Those first weeks of sharing the news of a new baby with friends and family, are so exciting. It's like finding out for yourself, that you are pregnant all over again!

2) Call your health care provider, and make an appointment to confirm pregnancy and establish yourself as a pregnant mama.

You will want to establish yourself with a trusted provider that closely aligns with your expectations and ideals when it comes to childbirth. Some things to consider when choosing a provider, is to know what hospital they deliver at, what are their cesearan birth rates, and what are their induction rates.

3) RESEARCH DOULAS IN YOUR AREA!

It is not uncommon for doulas to be booked MONTHS in advance. While there is the rare chance they have last minute openings, preparing for childbirth is one of those things that you should not wait around on. As you begin to think about nursery decor and prepare that closet with all the cuteness that infancy brings... why not prepare your mind and your body? A doula can help you navigate each and every decision that needs to be made. Often times they have a proverbial 'Little Black Book' filled with resources that can help you. From things as trivial as 'what's the best diaper pail?' to the more serious 'What are some easy comfort techniques to remember?'... a doula can help you both physically and mentally prepare for your little ones arrival!