Invitations should be mailed about four weeks prior to the shower. This way, it is not so soon that people forget about it, but yet gives people enough time to make room in their calendar and to RSVP. Guests should RSVP no later than two weeks before the shower. People who are organized will open the card, check their schedule, and call right then, so it is important to have voice mail or an answering machine so they can respond immediately.

If choosing a family name is important to you, but there are none that you particularly care for, consider using your child's middle name to follow the tradition.

Before starting an exercise routine while you are pregnant, talk to your doctor or midwife. He or she can help you figure out how slowly you should start and warning signs that may occur if there is a problem or if your are pushing too hard. Having a plan with your doctor may make you feel more comfortable as well.

Pre-natal vitamins that contain iron are harder on the stomach. Ask your doctor if you can try vitamins without the extra iron in them, unless you are anemic.