Labor & Delivery

Active labor begins when contractions become regular, stronger, and closer together. You’ll be monitored for cervical dilation, baby’s position, and overall progress. Depending on your birth plan, pain management options like an epidural may be offered. Delivery involves guided pushing, support from your care team, and close attention to both your and your baby’s safety, whether you're delivering vaginally or by C-section.

Once your baby is born, you’ll enter the immediate postpartum phase. This includes delivering the placenta, monitoring for bleeding or complications, and beginning physical recovery. You’ll also have time to rest, start skin-to-skin bonding, and get help with breastfeeding if desired. Your provider will continue to monitor your vital signs and ensure you feel supported in those first important hours.

A vaginal birth involves delivering the baby through the birth canal. A cesarean section is a surgical procedure where the baby is delivered through an incision in the abdomen, often planned or used if complications arise.

Yes. A birth plan is a helpful tool for sharing your preferences for pain management, support people, delivery position, and newborn care. Just remember that flexibility is key, as every labor is different

Options include epidurals, IV medications, and non-medicated techniques like breathing exercises, massage, and movement. Your provider can help you decide what’s best for you.

A general guideline is the 5-1-1 rule: contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour. Go sooner if your water breaks, you’re bleeding, or you have a high-risk pregnancy.

Most OB/GYNs or on-call team members aim to be present during active labor and delivery. You’ll also be supported by a team of nurses and hospital staff throughout your stay.

You’ll likely have skin-to-skin time with your baby, and the care team will assess your baby’s health, help initiate breastfeeding if desired, and monitor your recovery closely.

Typically, 24–48 hours after a vaginal delivery, and 2–4 days after a C-section, depending on how you and your baby are doing.

Support may include help with breastfeeding, emotional health screening, pain management, and instructions for recovery. Follow-up appointments are also scheduled for postpartum care.

You can express preferences, but availability depends on scheduling and the hospital’s on-call team. Building rapport with your provider during prenatal care increases continuity when possible.