too much information

The internet is a wonderful thing.  I wouldn't be here writing this without it.  But with the internet comes a lot of information, a little too much information.  You'll find the good, the bad, the pretty, and the ugly.  And if you're going through something like a medical condition or symptoms you're not sure of, you'll be sure to find so much information that your head will be spinning.  It can be stressful.  The internet in regards to pregnancy is no different.  For a first time Mommy it can lead her right into a full blown panic attack.  

That is why I highly suggest finding a few good, reliable sources that you feel comfortable with rather than trying to dive into any and all things baby.  The sources you decide on will be a personal choice.  But making sure these are reliable sources with good reputations is key.

During my first pregnancy, I kept my reading to a few sources.  My main reference was the well known book, What to Expect When You're Expecting.  This book was, and is, great.  It not only covers pregnancy month by month, but has chapters covering things before and after as well.  There's even a chapter about possible complications and explains them in a gentle way.  I experienced one of those complications and this book truly helped me through it.  Everything my Drs. did for me was covered in this book.  I felt safe and well taken care of.  I have begun reading this book again for baby number 2.  :)



I see a new edition has been published since I had little guy.  I will need to purchase this one.  :)

In addition to the book above, I also referred to one website.  Babycenter was very helpful for me.  You can register your pregnancy and they will send you, via email, weekly newsletters on your pregnancy.  And it won't stop there.  These newsletters will shift into information about your baby once he/she is born and will carry on until he/she reaches pre-school.  There are also tons of articles to read and community boards if you'd like to talk with other Mommies.  Also, I signed up and received FREE magazines in the mail, one per trimester (in my opinion, the perfect amount).

Since having litte guy I have also found two other websites that I like.  One is the bump and the other is WebMD.  They offer similar features as Babycenter.

And finally, Walmart offers some similar information.  First, I found a FREE magazine in their baby section of the store.  I really enjoyed this magazine.  They also have a great page on their website called "Baby and Me" which you can find here.

So, my personal advice, based on my first experience, is to choose one really good book, a couple of websites (join a community board or two if you like), and a magazine (all girls need a magazine now and then...wink).  And don't forget to take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy these special times.  ;)