Being prepared is essential when it comes to labor and delivery. Unless your partner is having a scheduled caesarean birth, the actual day your little tot arrives will be a complete surprise. While you may know your babe's expected due date, you should know that 95% of babies are actually born before or after this date. So the point is this: Be flexible and be prepared. There are three things you and your partner really should do to prepare for the big day:

1. Take a comprehensive prenatal class that, among other things, will educate you in labor and delivery
2. Prepare a birthing plan
3. Pack a bag for the hospital 2-3 weeks BEFORE your baby's expected due date.

To help you organize your thoughts, make sure to refer to our  WHAT TO PACK FOR THE HOSPITAL CHECKLIST.

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