Before you plant a seed, you have to make sure the soil is rich and fertile. You also have to ensure for season appropriateness; who would plant a tulip bulb in the summer?

Dr. Bradley talks about "pre-parenting:" parents are responsible for the choices they make for their children even before the baby is born.

Think about the environment you are creating for your baby, and the impact it can have. If you consume any drug - caffeine, alcohol, aspirin - it can affect your child's development. These chemicals can take a while to drain out of your system.

Consider other environmental factors, such as your own readiness to parent or your support system - if you have people who can help you should you need it, such as a life-partner, family members, or friends who support your choices.