It's true that you will need a support group in place to help you through this important transition in your life. Going through the birth experience alone can be a very difficult experience, both emotionally and physically. Of course, you'll have your partner and other family members or friends in your extensive support network, but who else might you include?

For starters, you should look for a good prenatal or birthing class. Ask family or friends for referrals; your doctor, midwife or doula may also know of some good classes you both might want to attend. Women's centers at your local hospital are another good resource, as many have excellent health libraries with a number of helpful books, DVDs, videos, or presentations to help you prepare for the big day.

Joining an “Expecting Group”

In addition to all of the great online parenting groups and resources out there, you may find it particularly helpful to join an online “expecting group.” These support groups are typically comprised of other expectant parents either in your geographic area or with the same general due date as you.

One of the benefits is that you can go through the entire pregnancy together — sharing tips, problems, solutions, and even emotional issues with one another in a private online forum. Just be sure that you don't divulge anything too personal, and take medically oriented advice back to your doctor before you consider trying it.

To join an expecting group, go to Google or Yahoo and use the “Groups” search feature with “expecting group” and your city or due date as keywords.