When I was pregnant, I decided to read the entire internet. I’m one of those people who doesn’t like surprises (oh, hey, understatement!) so I wanted to know every possible thing that could happen between now and 40 weeks. Well, 41 weeks, I wanted to know everything about labor and delivery too.

So now when my friends are pregnant, this is the list of websites I send them. They’re all very informative but also amusing and offer commiseration during a highly charged time.

Pregnant Chicken Pregnancy No-no List — You know that list of no-no’s when you get pregnant. Some are good to know (no alcohol), some are overly reductive and therefore miss the mark (no soft cheeses), and others are downright ludicrous (no hands over your head). This blogger went through every pregnancy no-no, researched why it was a no-no, and gives you the info so you can figure out for yourself whether to take the risk or not. I especially appreciated the sheer length of the no-no list.

The Advice Smackdown on Alphamom — From post-partum visitors to naming drama and learning disabilities, Amy (Amalah) gives kind yet practical advice how to handle nearly every emotional topic involving pregnancy and beyond. This really is a must-read.

The Pregnancy Calendar on Alphamom — Also by Amy (I might be a fan girl.) Generally on point and funny, but the true value is in her registry and hospital bag recommendations. I bought everything she told me to, having no idea what some of this stuff was, only to reach for it desperately as soon as Bean was home.

Also helpful when you realize at 3am one sleepless 3rd trimester night that you have no idea how many onesies you need, let alone how many 0-3 sleepers vs 3-6 month sleepers. Let Amy tell you everything. She also links to the most ridiculous hospital bag packing list, and I swear to God, it was so useful, even though the list is a mile long. She has three kids, lady knows her baby shopping.

In utero baby videos — The early weeks, before you can feel any movement, are kind of odd and surreal. Is there really a baby in there? Yes, yes there is and this site will give you a hint as to what it may be doing. Mostly: sucking its thumb, yawning, and other cute baby things. Yes, before you’re even showing. Truly amazing.

Let me know if I’m missing any!