In preparation for labor and birth it is a good idea to learn your options for pain relief. You should also find how to reach your health care provider if you go into labor. Find out at what point in labor you should call.
Visit the hospital or birthing center sometime before you reach the last few weeks of pregnancy. You should note:
• Directions to the hospital or birthing center
• Where to park
• Where to check-in
• Pre-register if you can so your insurance information is already in the computer when you arrive
What are the signs of labor?
• Contractions that come at regular and increasingly shorter intervals. The contractions should become stronger over time.
• Lower back pain that does not go away or cramping pains that feel like premenstrual
• Water breaks (can be a large gush or a continuous trickle)
• A Bloody (brownish or red-tinged) mucous discharge, which is probably the mucous plug that blocks the cervix. This usually means your cervix is dilating or opening up, becoming thinner and softer. Labor may start right away or it may still be days away.
When choosing where to deliver you should contact your insurance company to find out what options are available. In general the options include:
• Hospitals
• Birth centers
• At home
If you choose a hospital or birth center there are most likely Lamaze classes and breastfeeding support.
The most advanced medical equipment and highly trained doctors for pregnant women and their babies are available in a hospital.
Who should give birth in a hospital setting?
• Women with health problems
• Women with pregnancy complications
• Women who are at risk for problems during labor and delivery
If you or the baby is in danger a doctor in the hospital can do a cesarean section and you can receive epidurals or many other pain relief options in a hospital setting.
It is important to note that doctors and midwives have admitting privileges at certain hospitals. Before you choose a doctor or midwife find out their affiliated hospital. Other things you might consider when choosing a hospital include:
• How close is the hospital to your home?
• Is an anesthesiologist available 24 hours a day?
• Are you comfortable in the labor and delivery rooms?
• Are private rooms available?
• How many visitors are allowed into the room with you?
• Does the hospital have neonatal intensive care units in case of serious problems with the baby?
• Where does the baby stay after delivery?
• Does the hospital have an on-site birth center?
At hospitals with on-site birth centers you can choose to deliver your baby in a comfortable, intimate setting. If problems arise, you and your baby have the security of already being in the hospital.
Source: National Institutes of Health Online
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All health concerns should be addressed by a qualified health care professional.
By Connie Limon
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