So, I've got no idea..

[ElleJay]

.. in what I've got to do in order to prepare for the upcoming birth (even though its still a while away)
What do I have to do in terms of organising a hospital? In anything?! I've got no idea!

[squidipa]

ild be thinking about what kind of atmospher you want to be in when u deliver and then what type of birth u want from there then i wouldlook into the places or hospitals that can do that for you. If ur choosing to deliver at hospital your dr will start organising that fro you but sometimes there lazy so just ask ur dr. hope that helps somewhat sweet

[Julie Doula]

Hi LJ, How exciting! Congratulations!

Are there any doulas in your area? A local doula might be a big help in letting you know what your options are, and the pros & cons of those, so you can decide what you want for your first birth.

A good book to start with, that's an overview especially if you're a first timer, is 'Birth Your Way' by Sheila Kitzinger. I found it in our local library last week - I was really impressed.

Another good general intro to birth, that might get you thinking about what you want and what's right for you, is "A Labour of Love - An Australian guide to natural birth" by Gabrielle Targett (who is a doula & physiotherapist).

What about looking at some birth videos? A picture tells a thousand words. Bellybelly has a good collection of on-line vids and montages, and here is my collection.

[jamakin]

Hi,
firstly congratultions! it is such an exciting time!
if you haven't organised anything yet don't panic, i would start by seeing your gp or ob and see if they recommend any hospitals or birthcentres in your area, often they can organise it all for you, or you can contact them yourself.. then you just need to wait for an appointment at your chosen care giver.
Then just try and gather as much information as you can on everything to do with labour and birthing so you can make informed decisions on what you'd like to happen and what options are available to you. There is heaps of information on here and lots of people that would be more helpful than i am!
HTH, good luck!