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There are plenty of decisions to consider during pregnancy. Opting for prenatal testing, selecting a doctor for your baby, and deciding who will be present during your baby's birth are among the more challenging decisions you'll need to make. But where you choose to give birth - whether in a hospital or in a birth center setting - is one of the most important decisions you'll make before delivery.

Many parents assume that all birth defects are severe or even fatal, but the fact is that many are treatable, often immediately after birth - and sometimes even before the baby is born. It's especially important to know the risk factors involved and what you can do to prevent birth defects. However, it's also important to realize that most children born with congenital defects are born to two healthy parents.

In the happy haze of early pregnancy, you're probably already thinking of baby names and planning to shop for baby clothes. The reality of labor and birth may seem extremely far off - which makes this the perfect time to start planning for the arrival of your baby by creating a birth plan that details your wishes

If you are having a child for the first time, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by questions, fears, and just not knowing what to expect. Many new parents find that birthing classes can really help calm their worries and answer many questions.

Fortunately, preparing for a second child can be as rewarding and special as the first time. Helping your older child understand what to expect can lessen anxiety for both of you, and being aware of the changes involved in having a second child is the best way to prepare for this joyous event.

Baby-care basics:
Getting Help After the Birth
Handling a Newborn
Bonding and Soothing Techniques
Diapering Dos and Don'ts
Bathing Basics
Circumcision and Umbilical Cord Care
Feeding and Burping Your Baby
Sleeping Basicsv

Newborns often have temporary pimples or blotches that soon disappear as they adapt to life outside the womb. It's also quite common to see birthmarks on their skin at birth or shortly after. Birthmarks range from hardly noticeable to disfiguring, but no matter how large or small they are, they can be upsetting.v