First, it is important to know that your "due date" should really be thought of as a "due month."

Pre-eclampsia or toxemia is a condition that only occurs during pregnancy, with signs and symptoms that may include high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and significant swelling in the hands and the face. (This is why these things are checked at each prenatal visit close to your due date.) 

Stripping or sweeping the membranes is the separation of 2-3 cm of the membranes (bag around the baby) from the underlying cervix or lower part of the uterus. It is done during a vaginal examination with the finger of the examiner. There is some evidence from research studies, and many practitioners believe, that stripping the membranes may help to start labor in women who are past their due date (from 41-42 weeks of gestation). Unfortunately, if the cervix is closed, it is not possible to strip the membranes, and it is the woman with a closed cervix who has the greatest chance of not going into labor on her own. The procedure of stripping the membranes is no more uncomfortable than the usual vaginal exam (never very comfortable!) and has not been shown to cause complications such as infection or bleeding.

The most common hormone looked for in pregnancy is human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), the "pregnancy hormone."

Folic acid is a B-vitamin that is essential for normal neural tube closure and development in the fetus.

Hemorrhoids, which are the abnormal dilation of veins in the anal canal, frequently occur or flare up during pregnancy. Constipation, also common during pregnancy, makes hemorrhoids worse, so try to avoid constipation. Here is an easy, inexpensive, and effective remedy for hemorrhoids from Sr. Angela Murdaugh, whose years of midwifery experience and having to cut corners have produced some invaluable tips: "Take a regular white potato and cut it into bullet shaped pieces about as big as the end of one's middle finger. Keep the pieces submerged in water in the refrigerator. Whenever hemorroids swell and/or itch, just insert one rectally. Can be used as often as necessary and will bring fabulous relief at a very low cost."

Iron is probably the only nutrient that it is impossible to get enough of with a very good diet during pregnancy; therefore, some kind of supplement may be necessary.

About half of pregnant women will experience some nausea and/or vomiting related to their pregnancy.

Highlights in the history of a very old profession, with references for more information elsewhere.