Ive decided to put together some advice for first timers in the pregnancy game. (and also some old-timers, you never know what you might learn!)

My first peice is on your first visit to the antenatal ward. With my first visit I was totally unprepared, so I hope this

By doing a home pregnancy test, somtimes thats not enough to get you in to a hospital to have a baby. You will need to visit your GP and do another test, and get them to write you a referral letter and comfirmation of pregnancy to your chosen hospital. Have a word to family and friends, and even visit a few different hospitals before you choose to book into one. A good hospital can mean a truly pleasurable birthing experience.

On your first visit, you will be asked to come in and answer a questionaire. Some hospitals prefer that your partner isnt with you as there are some pretty personal questions they need to ask (to do with your past and present health and lifestyle) that some times they find women arent comfortable talking about in front of their man. (lets face it, weve all done stupid things in our past havent we) its very important that you answer these questions honestly and openly, and keep in mind that the person assessing you will not judge you for any of it. they hear all sorts of nasties all the time. Its ok for your partner to come to the hospital with you, but the doctor might ask him to stay outside for a few mins while they ask all the questions. Be sure to ask your parents if any illnesses (eg kidney/heart probs) run in the family.

You will be asked about what sort of care you would like, (more on that in an upcoming advice-keep a look out) wether it be birthing suite, home care etc, and also what sort of medical professional you would like to see. -Midwives, obstetrician, GP etc (once again, more on that later) and if you have trouble deciding, your hospital will be only too happy to provide you some more info to take home with you. If you have any questions- JUST ASK! Its what theyre there for. You should also get a bounty bag. (In Australia anyway, sorry Im not sure about other countries) They will give this to you for free and its packed full of stacks of info and samples. Take the time out to read it, as Im sure it will make things alot clearer to you.

Youll probably be asked to do a urine test. This is not much different to doing the pregnancy test, but this time they already know youre pregnant so they test your protein levels to check for early signs of pre-eclampsia and other nasties. Pre-eclampsia is just a fancy word for Hypertension induced by pregnancy.

For some lucky people you may even get your very first ultrasound. This is not always the case, it depends how far along in your pregnancy you are when you first go to the hospital. For most people their first ultrasound only looks like a little dot or a jelly bean on the screen, but its still extremely exciting, none the less.

Have a think about who you would like to be there as your support people when you give birth. Not every one has support people, but it is a nice touch.

Your doctor will calculate your EDD (estimated due date) and tell you exactly when you are due. (or thereabouts.) Please have a think about when your last menstrual period was as it will be a big help.

After your first visit you will probably have your next lot of visits once a month until you reach 28 weeks, then once every fortnight until you reach 36 weeks, and then once a week until your little bundle of joy is born.

In the mean time, I hope you enjoy reading some of the advice I have for you. And congratulations on your pregnancy!