Expecting Moms Timeline

Click on the timeline below to access resources and learn more about pregnancy and birth.

Newly Pregnant

Understanding Your Options
Do you know all of your childbirth options so that you can make the decisions that are right for you and your family? Read more
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Educate Yourself
Have you signed up for a childbirth education class, read any pregnancy and birthing books, watched documentaries yet? Get a sense of what birth options are available to you. Read more
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5 Steps to a Healthy Birth

Do you feel overwhelmed by all the birth information? Start with these 5 steps to guide you through the process of making your decisions.

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Planning Your Birth

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Your Birth Team

Have you decided on your birth team? Use our provider network to find the best possible match for you.

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Your Birth Environment

Where will you feel best supported and safest birthing? Start here to explore to your personal philosophy and vision for your birth.

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Preparing for Labor and Delivery

Have you researched different labor coping strategies and pain management techniques? Use our provider directory to explore a birth doula, learn about epidurals and learn what feels right for you.

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Postpartum Health

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Caring for your newborn

What are the ways you want to bond and care for your baby immediately after birth? Learn more from our professionals.

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Breastfeeding and Beyond

Do you want to make sure you have support for breastfeeding? Read our stories and find providers that can help with any of your questions or challenges.

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Caring for Yourself

Have you remembered to plan good care techniques for yourself? Learn more on how new moms find ways to connect with other new moms and birth professionals to get the support they need in the early weeks.

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You’ve spent countless hours researching, talking about, and reflecting on your pregnancy and birth. Now, it’s time to put concepts into action, and plan your experience. You’ll begin by selecting your care providers, developing a support network, and scoping out birth environments. Guided by your birth philosophy, you and your care team will work hard to set up the birth experience you envision. However, dozens of factors impact birth. You’ve empowered yourself to make conscientious choices, but some events lie beyond your control. As you make arrangements, stay flexible and prepare for surprises—even the best-laid plans change midcourse. If the lack of control scares you, talk about your fears with a care provider or family member. Browse the CIC Provider Network for a childbirth educator or doula to help you emotionally and physically prepare.