Personal considerations
You may need to consider some personal issues before you become pregnant.
Your marriage
- Stability of your relationship.
- Readiness for the responsibility of parenting.
- Your and your partner’s age.
It is important to remember that most couples do not become pregnant instantly and conception can often take up to six months to achieve. Do not let the planning of pregnancy or timing of ovulation create stress within your relationship as it is important to enjoy the process and time with your partner.
Your support system
- Family and friends who can support you emotionally and practically.
- Professional support.
Your finances
- Additional costs of a baby.
- Loss of income.
- Maternity benefit.
- Medical aid, hospital plan or insurance policy.
Career
- Career adjustments.
- Options for returning to work, such as maternity leave, childcare facilities, flexibility of time constraints.
Parenting
- Shared views of parenting issues, such as discipline, education and religion.
If single
- Full impact of emotional and financial responsibility.
- Parenting role of father.
- The previous factors mentioned are even more relevant if you are single.
Related articles
Food choices for a healthy pregnancy
-
5 mins to read
Labour
As labour starts, a mother’s mood changes and she becomes less aware of what is happening outside her body, and more aware of what is happening inside her body.
5 mins to read
Nutrition during pregnancy
By taking responsibility for your body, you can maximise your level of wellbeing and enjoy good health.
Good nutrition is of the utmost importance during your pregnancy
5 mins to read
The third stage of labour
This stage lasts from the birth of the baby until the placenta is delivered, usually from 5–20 minutes.
5 mins to read
Checklist - maternity ward suitcase
*Check whether the maternity ward has a list of the items you will need.
Items for hospital stay
5 mins to read
Medication for pain relief
In a normal, uncomplicated labour and delivery, the use of medication is not always necessary. Your own resources are often enough.
5 mins to read
Second Trimester
Physical changes
4 mins to read
Checklist - preparing to bring baby home
Clothing
5 mins to read
Signs of labour
The following signs of labour may occur in any order.
1. Progressive contractions
5 mins to read
Third trimester
Physical changes
5 mins to read
First visit
A detailed medical history, of you and your partner, will be recorded at your first prenatal visit.
2 mins to read
The last few weeks of pregnancy
The uterus
5 mins to read
Tips to budget for baby
There are many factors to consider before dedicating yourself to raising and budgeting a child for the next 18 years or more.
5 mins to read
Multiple births
Regular prenatal care is most important if you are carrying more than one baby, as the risk to you and your babies is higher.
1 min to read
Prenatal Care
Discuss questions or concerns you or your partner may have with your caregiver at any stage of your pregnancy.
5 mins to read
Pregnancy concerns and diet solutions
-
4 mins to read
Subsequent prenatal visits
Your health, and the growth and development of your baby, must be closely monitored.
1 min to read
Preparation for childbirth and parenthood
The experience of childbirth and parenthood is an unknown adventure, which results in major changes to your life.
1 min to read
The First Month of Pregnancy
Your pregnancy: weeks 1-4 – the start of your first trimester. The first signs of pregnancy may be very visible… or not at all.
2 mins to read
