Childbirth - Labour & Delivery

Latest Feature Articles


 		How to Have a Natural Childbirth
There are many ways to try to have an unmedicated birth. One of the best ways to maximize your chances of a natural childbirth is to avoid a labor induction.
Epidural Side Effects
Side effects from an epidural include a drop in the mother's blood pressure and having more difficulty pushing. Find out how to prevent epidural complications.
Childbirth after Cesarean
Studies show that one factor that helps with VBAC success is to go into labor without being induced. A previous labor that ended at 8 cm or later also helps.
Epidural for Labor
The number of mothers who choose an epidural during labor might surprise you. Some regions report as high as a 90% epidural rate in the local hospitals.
Giving Birth Without an Episiotomy
The clear evidence on episiotomies shows that they often cause more harm than good, so why do care providers still perform them? How you can avoid an episiotomy?
Does Labor Hurt the Same for All Mothers?
Childbirth is painful, sometimes from the first contraction to the final stage of birth. Labor may not hurt the same depending on some cultural differences and weight.
Group B Strep Treatment Questioned
A Cochrane review sheds doubt on whether or not routine antibiotics given to laboring mothers who test positive for GBS will reduce the risk of infection.
Guidelines for Labor Induction
Not all care providers or childbirth experts agree on the reasons for labor induction. New guidelines established by ACOG may help but are controversial.
Walking During Labor
Today many mothers have their movement restricted in labor due to fetal monitoring and medication use. Research shows that walking can shorten the first stage of labor.
Shoulder Dystocia
Shoulder dystocia is one of the most serious of all obstetric complications. Large babies can sometimes be a risk factor. One treatment is the Gaskin Maneuver.
What Does a Contraction Feel Like?
One of the most common questions as you get closer to your due date is how will you know a contraction when you are having one? Find out how to recognize contractions.
Top Questions to Ask Your Anesthesiologist
The majority of women are very interested to learn about pain relief options for labor; however they may not know the best questions to ask. Here are sample questions.
Top Ten Things to Do During Pregnancy
Most women know the basics of having a healthy pregnancy. Here are good reminders about what to do and what not to do to benefit mothers and their babies.
Early Elective Cesareans Can Be Harmful
If you have been advised by your care provider to have an elective cesarean, here is what you need to know about the timing of your cesarean.
Factors that Increase the Cesarean Rate
With increasing cesarean rates around the world, research now shows that another factor influencing the mode of delivery could be the mother's diet.
The Spirituality of Giving Birth
More and more people are seeking wisdom and guidance from spiritual sources in their lives today. The time of pregnancy and birth are no exception.
To Break or Not to Break Your Water
For years, an amniotomy was a routine part of the care mothers received during labor. Now questions arise about whether it helps or hinders the labor process.
Medications and Interventions During Labor
Technology has entered the birthing realm and often replaces the normal physiology of labor. Parents need to know the truth about all procedures.
Monitoring Your Baby During Labor
All caregivers from homebirth midwives to high-risk obstetricians will need to assess the baby's well-being by using some type of fetal monitor.
Pregnancy Complications with LEEP
Cervical abnormalities are often treated with a surgical procedure known as LEEP. Evidence shows that women have more pregnancy complications following a LEEP.
How to Reduce Tears During Birth
Most mothers write a birth plan today. They will typically include preferences to avoid an episiotomy and reduce the amount of tearing during birth.
The Truth about Vacuum Deliveries
Complications occur more often with vacuum assisted deliveries. Using midwives, doulas and a variety of pushing positions can reduce the rate of vacuum extractions.
Back Labor and How to Prevent It
Back labor often causes labor to be longer and more painful. Turning your posterior baby to an anterior position during pregnancy may help to prevent back labor.
Childbirth Class Series
Six classes in this online course discuss labor, pain management, questions to ask your provider, cesarean birth, breastfeeding and postpartum issues.
Back Labor
Back labor can result in more pain and longer labors. In some cases, it might mean that the baby needs to rotate to face the mother's back.