There's bound to be an uncomfortable episode or two while your emotions are so close to the surface. Couple this emotional tension with your ever-growing list of things to do, and meltdown is imminent. Try to defuse the situation ahead of time by having an action plan for coping with anger-provoking situations.

Irritability

Because of all the added demands on your body, mind, and emotional equilibrium, you could be finding yourself short on patience these days. In pregnancy the proverbial molehill quickly becomes a mountain. You have absolutely no tolerance for the idiosyncrasies of others, and people you found mildly annoying before pregnancy can become absolutely impossible to be around.

If you can't stand your coworker's endless prattle about who did what to whom and got away with it, tell her you need some quiet time. And the next time your neighbor launches into her 303 easy steps for making your home look as great as hers, politely excuse yourself for a rest rather than letting your boiling point rise. Pregnancy is the perfect excuse for steering clear of people who — let's face it — are just plain annoying. Avoidance isn't the ultimate answer, of course, but during this crucial time in which your emotional and physical balance are so important, it's a good solution for taking care of the little things and keeping your sanity intact.

If family and friends are getting your ire up as well, it might be a sign that you are feeling overwhelmed and undersupported. Take a look at what's really getting to you. When you blow up at your partner for forgetting to stop at the dry cleaner, is it because you really have to get your winter sweaters back posthaste or because lately you feel like you have to either nag or do it yourself to accomplish anything? If the latter, sit down and tell your partner what you're feeling and work out some strategies for easing the burden together.

Overwhelmed

Half of your pregnancy has passed you by, the baby's room is a sea of boxes, you can't decide on a name, and your office isn't even close to being ready for your maternity leave. Step back and take stock. Are you making work — and stress — for yourself through self-imposed deadlines? Look at your to-do list in terms of small tasks rather than as an all-or-nothing duty. Prioritize what's there and dare to cross off a few things that just aren't that important right now. It's nice to have everything just so for baby's arrival, but your new son is only going to care about three things — being warm, well-fed, and near his mom and dad.

Also remember that you aren't in this alone. If you're single, enlist family or close friends to help out. And if you are married but still aren't getting the help and support you need from your husband or family, ask for it. Although it's nice when others anticipate your needs and pitch in voluntarily, they may be wrapped up in their own preparations and anxieties about the new family addition. Don't feel guilty about reminding them that their help is needed now.

Having a planned C-section? You'll still benefit from prepared childbirth classes, which offer a comprehensive look at the entire birth experience, including hospital policies and procedures, newborn care, and a sneak peek of the birthing facilities. Mention your cesarean when you call for information; some programs offer special classes just for moms who are having C-sections.