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it covers maternity leave in case you can't go to work due to complications before or after giving birth. I wanted to stay home with my baby for the full six weeks after giving birth, however I did not have enough time saved up. I had to pay for the days I was out, but if I had disability it would have been covered. Also make sure your insurance covers maternity preferably before you get pregnant because then it is too late after the fact.

2. Get a book about pregnancy and caring for a new born and read up. A lot of changes are occurring in your body. The more you know the less anxiety you will feel. It really helped me when I started to go into labor. The Internet is also a great place to find out information. I sighed up for a website that sent me information automatically to my e-mail. It was all free.
3. Be prepared to see your doctor a lot. That means if you are working be prepared to take time off. Schedule appointments ahead of time. If you can't take too much time from work, talk to your doctor about late afternoon appointments. They will usually work with you. I was teaching and I would get out at 3:30pm. So I asked for 4:30p.m. appointments even though the latest appointments they had available was 4, but it never hurts to ask.
4. Find a Pediatrician. They will have to come to the hospital after your baby is born. They will also ask you for one when you pre register at the hospital. I went to one of my friend's daughter's appointments. I really liked the doctor and the way he was with her daughter. Then I asked some other people at work and they liked him a lot also, so I was confident in choosing my son's doctor. Also ask about insurances that they take. Most doctors take all types of insurances, but just make sure so it will be easier on you after your baby is born. You will have enough to worry about.
5. Have a birthing plan. Whether you want natural childbirth or if you want that epidural as soon as you walk in the door. Whatever your preference. Have it written down.
6. Pre-register at the hospital or birthing center of your choice, but do your homework and ask around so you will have the experience you want to have. Go over the birth plan with the hospital. There may be some things that the hospital will not allow that you want to do. This will help you in your decision. I wanted to walk around during labor, and I wanted a natural childbirth. I didn't have a plan so when I got there they didn't allow it, but if I would have gone over a birth plan

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