A joyful, fearless acceptance on your part, the months of pregnancy are a period of training and preparation for labour and all that follows. It is a period of growth and development for mother and father as well as for baby.

This means acquiring an understanding of what to expect; how babies are conceived, develop, and born; how different men and women think, and feel and act when their babies are coming; how the mother's body adapts day by day to the presence of the developing baby within her; and what father and mother can do to promote her health and prepare for the baby's birth and care.

All of this can be learned from the doctor, nurse, health visitor and from books and pamphlets.

Then it means modifying your lifestyle so that your mental and physical hygiene are good, your diet balanced, and your rest, exercise and fresh air adequate. All of this can help you to acquire a calm and contented spirit.

Many women work during pregnancy and they find that their jobs or careers provide an added interest to life during this period. The type of work you do may determine how long you work. However, it is important that a pregnant woman who works outside of the home stops working at about the seventh or eighth month.

A month or two at home in which to make arrangements for the coming baby as well as to enjoy the luxury of a flexible routine, is a treat for the working woman who becomes pregnant.

If you are employed outside the home your doctor will advise you when to give up the job. It will depend on your progress or how you feel. Some women continue to work even until six weeks before the baby is due or later. You may find the routine at work keeps up your morale and gives you other interests.

Mental attitude during pregnancy is very important. If the pregnancy is normal and full cooperation is given to the doctor, there is nothing to worry about.

If the mother is anxious about anything, no matter how trivial it may seem, the doctor should be told. Pregnant women should not at any time be influenced by the stories of friends, relatives or neighbours. They should always take their fears to their doctor. This way there will be fewer of them.

Travel during pregnancy is usually safe if you make certain allowances and preparation. The most comfortable time in pregnancy for most women to travel is during months four to six -- the second trimester. By this time your body has adjusted to pregnancy and you'll probably have more energy.

Morning sickness is usually no longer a problem during these months, and the rate of complications is at its lowest. Here is a list of things to keep in mind.

Mention your upcoming trip to your doctor and ask if he or she has any advice for you.

If you travel by car it will be more comfortable if you make frequent stops to walk around and restore circulation.

Flying is safe during pregnancy. Try to get an aisle seat on the plane so you can get up and move around and also have easy access to the bathroom. Around the first month, check with your doctor about flying (or any long distance travelling).

Travelling can upset your stomach, your sleeping habits and your health. Do not take any medications, including prescription drugs or over-the-counter preparations without checking with your doctor. This includes anti-motion-sickness pills and laxatives.

If you plan to be away from home for an extended time, ask your doctor to recommend another doctor who can care for you at your new location.

Although travel during pregnancy is considered safe in most cases, it is not recommended for women who are considered "high risk'' during pregnancy, who have a serious health problem and need special medical care.

Pregnancy is an exciting experience for the father also and he deserves to share in it. The mother should talk to him freely about what is happening and about how she feels. She should continue to reassure him of her love so that he will fully feel himself a part of the pregnancy and share the love for the baby. Jacqueline Lightbourne Chief Nursing Office Department of Health.