Labor & birth

Having a baby isn't easy. Pain in labor can be very intense. This is because your uterus contracts, your cervix dilates, and your baby moves down through the pelvis. But there are ways to make the pain more manageable.

Try these comfort measures:

• Quiet and calm room
• Music of my choice
• Nice smells
• Dimmed lights
• Walking or dancing
• Changing positions
• Breathing/Relaxation
• Visualization/Hypnosis
• Massage
• Acupressure (pressure points)
• Birthing ball
• Hot/cold pack
• Shower/Bath
• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
• Pain medication and/or epidural

Remember you can change your pain plan during labor! Having a baby is personal, and you can make your own choices. It’s important to talk to your doctor or midwife during pregnancy about what you want. Making a birth plan is a good idea. Safety is important, and your healthcare team should work with you to make the best choices for you and your baby. Shared decision-making means that you are part of the team. You have the right to ask for what you want, have your questions answered, and to say no.

A C-section is surgery to help deliver a baby. An incision, or cut, is made through mom's belly and womb. It can be elective or done in urgent labor. The choice to have a c-section should be a shared decision, except in the case of an emergency.

When are C-sections needed?

A C-section might be needed if:

• Baby is showing signs of distress
• Baby isn’t head-down in the womb (talk to your doctor about vaginal breech)
• Multiple babies (twins, triplets, etc.)
• Placenta previa (the placenta is blocking baby’s way out)
• Previous C-section (talk to your doctor about a vaginal birth after c-section or VBAC)
• Medical issues
• Labor problems

Recovering from a C-section

Recovery can be different for everyone. Here’s what you can expect:

• You might spend a few days in the hospital for medical checks.
• Pain is normal after surgery. You'll get medicine to help with it.
• Taking care of the incision is crucial to avoid infection. Keep it clean and dry.
• Avoid heavy lifting and hard activities for at least 6 weeks.
• If you didn't plan for a C-section, it's important to honor your feelings and talk to someone you trust about it. How you feel matters. 
• You can usually start breastfeeding soon after the surgery. If you have a planned C-section, ask your doctor about skin-to-skin in the operating room and breastfeeding in the recovery room. 

Recovery times vary. Most moms recover in about 6-8 weeks. Full recovery can take longer. It can be called the postpartum year. In this time, your body takes care of itself after growing a baby. Remember that it’s important to ask for help and take care of yourself too! Whether a C-section is planned or urgent, your medical team will guide you through a safe delivery and recovery. If you’re worried, talk to your healthcare team.