Labor & Delivery

Labor, also called childbirth or giving birth, is the process by which the baby and the placenta leave the mother. This video, by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, describes the three stages of labor: early labor, active labor, and delivery of the placenta and afterbirth.

You're expecting to give birth soon. But will you know when it's time? Let's learn about some common signs of labor.

Labor, or childbirth, has 3 stages. The first stage is the longest. It can last up to 20 hours, especially if you are having your first child.

Stage 2 starts once your cervix is fully dilated. It ends with the birth of your baby. Stage 3 starts after your baby is born.

Watch this video to learn what inducing labor means and the reasons your doctor may need to induce labor.

Sometimes we need to help your uterus start the process of childbirth. We call this "labor induction." Most often, we do it to avoid danger to your health, or the health of your baby. It does have risks. But we recommend it when the benefits outweigh the risks.

Watch this video to learn what fetal monitoring is and how the procedure is used during labor.

Exercise is great for new moms. It can make your body stronger and give you more energy. It can improve your mood and your sleep. And it can help get rid of stress. Read on for tips on how to exercise safely after having your baby.

Your healthcare provider may describe the progress of your labor in terms of your baby's position and station, as well as by the effacement and dilation of your cervix. Learn more about the 3 stages of labor.

A birth plan is an outline of your wishes for your labor and birth. This plan helps your healthcare providers know what you want and expect. Work with your healthcare provider to create a plan that leaves room for the unexpected.

This injection of medicine blocks the pain of childbirth. We give it to you through your lower back. After the injection, you'll still be awake and alert. You'll be able to push to deliver the baby.

Watch this video to learn about an epidural as pain management during labor, how it's placed, and pushing with an epidural.

Watch this video to learn about non-drug options for pain relief including The Lamaze Method and Hypnobirthing.

Watch this video to learn about how nitrous oxide can be used for pain management during labor.

When the subject of pain control in labor comes up, most women automatically think of an epidural. While an epidural might provide the most relief, it is not your only choice. There are multiple ways your obstetrics provider can make labor less painful. © TWN (Bundoo)

Understand what to expect at a hospital with a baby friendly designation including skin to skin contact, learning to breastfeed correctly and rooming in.

Watch this video to learn what to expect during your hospital stay after giving birth including you and your baby's health, bonding with your baby and fall prevention.

Watch this video to learn the causes of a postpartum hemorrhage, the risks, and when you should get medical help.

This video will illustrate the importance of prenatal education in reaching the full 40-weeks of pregnancy. It will explain the importance of maintaining a proper diet and nutrition, avoiding alcohol, drugs and cigarette smoke and controlling weight gain during pregnancy. It will provide guidance on natural, spontaneous labor that includes getting regular, prenatal checks, knowing warning signs to watch for and understanding the optimal window for brain and respiratory development. In addition, the program will discuss the dangers of using medications to induce labor, including long-term difficulties for children who are born pre-term, encouraging women to accept help and try to enjoy their pregnancies.

Watch this video to learn the fall risks for new moms in the hospital, safety tips, and what steps your hospital can take to keep you safe.

This is when a baby is born early. A full-term pregnancy lasts 40 weeks. A preterm delivery is one that happens before the baby reaches 37 weeks of pregnancy. We say the baby is "premature."

This is the most common way a pregnant woman gives birth. It's when the baby is pushed out through the vagina. Let's learn more about what your body goes through in delivery.

Learn the difference between an early, full, later, or postterm pregnancy. Also, understand that babies who are not yet 39 weeks still have developing and maturation to do, and that is best done in the womb. © TWN (Bundoo)

Understand that a doula is a type of specialist who has been trained to support a laboring woman before, during, and after her birth. © TWN (Bundoo)

This is a small cut you may need when you give birth. It makes the opening of your vagina larger. It speeds up delivery. It helps your baby come out without tearing your vagina. And if a baby is stuck inside you, it makes space for forceps or an extractor.

Understand the role of a midwife and that they are professional caregivers trained to help women deliver their babies. © TWN (Bundoo)

Learn about The Lamaze method, which is a popular childbirth approach that teaches expecting parents strategies for handling pain during labor, potentially reducing unnecessary medical intervention. © TWN (Bundoo)

You're getting ready for your baby's birth, and you have some personal decisions to make. One of these is the type of delivery you want to have. If the thought of a lot of medical help doesn't feel right to you, you may opt for a natural childbirth.

After you give birth, your body needs time to heal. We call this the "postpartum" period. It usually lasts about six weeks. It's important to follow your care plan during this time so you can make a full recovery.

After you give birth, it's normal to focus your energy on your new baby. But it's important to remember your own needs, too. Here are some tips to help you in the days after childbirth.

Understand what is meant by cord tissue and placenta tissue banking, and learn how it is beneficial. © TWN (Bundoo)

This is the delivery of a baby through an incision in your belly. Some c-sections are planned ahead of time. Some are done because of an emergency.

Watch this video to learn about the benefits of skin-to-skin contact after a cesarean section.

After you give birth, your body needs time to heal. We call this the "postpartum" period. It usually lasts about six weeks. It's important to follow your care plan during this time so you can make a full recovery.

It can take time to recover fully after a cesarean. It's important to take care of yourself --both for your own sake and because your new baby needs you.