Pregnancy is a naturally occurring phenomena and an important aspect to life, not only for a woman but family and society as a whole. Mental and physical health during pregnancy determines health of baby, ease of childbirth and management of the newborn. If the mother is anxious, afraid, worried or stressed then these feelings will become part of the baby’s character. The Vedas understood this thousands of years ago and realized that if a baby isn’t loved or wanted during pregnancy and in the early weeks then the child will have those feelings engrained in their personality. Optimum health at conception for men and women is most important and ayurveda advises a period of preparation especially if there are fertility issues. The first six weeks after birth are critical for mental and physical health for mother and baby, and is why extended family support is focused on them in the Indian tradition. Natural birth, pregnancy and newborn issues will be discussed with guest Terra Rafael.