Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved. CONGRATULATIONS, YOU'RE PREGNANT! You're having a baby. Whether you've been trying for a while, or whether it's a surprise to you, one thing's for sure: the next nine months are likely to be challenging, exciting, and scary in equal measure. 20 great things about being pregnant 1. It can feel amazing to have created a new life - with your partner. 2.

You get free dental care from now until your baby is one year old. 3. It's an excuse to pamper yourself - you won't have time when your baby arrives! 4. You can take a nap when you feel like it, and not feel guilty 5. Feeling your baby's first kick - it is truly miraculous. 6. People give up their seat in public places and open doors for you (theoretically). 7.

The 'glow' - once you get over the morning sickness, you'll blossom as your hair gets shinier and your skin is rosy. 8. You'll never be on your own or lonely for nine months, and will always have someone to talk to. 9. You won't get your period for slightly more than nine months. 10. You get to eat more (but be careful of eating for two!). 11.

If you're pregnant during winter, your baby will help keep you warm. 12. Relishing the first few weeks when you and your partner have an amazing secret. 13. Seeing the looks on your friends' and family's faces when you tell them your news. 14. Dreaming of the future - what your baby will look like, what personality they'll have, what their career will be - dream big! 15. For the less well endowed, this is your chance to have a cleavage! 16.

Choosing baby clothes. They are always cute. 17. Reading about how your baby grows - and being astounded by the facts. 18. It is the best reason and incentive you'll ever get to give up smoking. 19. Maternity leave - time to prepare yourself, and enjoy your baby when it comes.

20. Friendliness of everyone you meet. Goodwill increases tenfold to a pregnant woman.