If you’re pregnant and weighing your pain relief options, one of the most common questions is:
“What does an epidural actually feel like?”

You may have heard strong opinions in every direction—some people call it a lifesaver, others describe it as scary. The reality is far more balanced and grounded in real, physical sensations that unfold step by step.

This guide walks you through what an epidural does and what it feels like in the moment, so you can approach labor with clearer expectations and less fear of the unknown.

What an Epidural Does During Labor

An epidural is a form of regional anesthesia used to reduce pain during labor. Medication is delivered through a small catheter placed in your lower back, blocking pain signals from traveling from your uterus and birth canal to your brain.

You remain awake, alert, and present for your baby’s birth—but with significantly reduced pain.

Most people describe contractions shifting from sharp and overwhelming to strong pressure or tightening.

What It Feels Like to Get an Epidural: Step by Step

Getting Into Position

To place an epidural, you’ll be asked to sit up or lie on your side and curl your back outward. This position opens the spaces between your vertebrae so the anesthesiologist can place the catheter safely.

For many people, this is actually the most difficult part—not because of pain, but because you’re asked to stay still while experiencing contractions. Nurses and partners usually help support your body so you can hold the position safely.

The Numbing Injection

Before the epidural is placed, the area is numbed with a local anesthetic.

This typically feels like:

• a quick pinch
• followed by a brief burning or stinging sensation

The discomfort is intense but short-lived, lasting about 10–20 seconds.

The Epidural Placement

Once the area is numb, the epidural needle is used to place a thin, flexible catheter into the epidural space.

Most people report:

• pressure rather than sharp pain
• a deep pushing sensation in the lower back

Occasionally, you may feel a quick electric-like sensation down one leg. This is normal and happens when the needle briefly brushes a nerve. It’s startling, but it passes quickly.

Important to know: the needle does not stay in your back—only the soft catheter remains to deliver medication.

What the Epidural Feels Like Once It Starts Working

The First Signs of Relief

Within about 5–15 minutes, you’ll begin to feel a shift.

Many people notice:

• warmth spreading through the lower body
• a heavy, relaxed sensation in the legs
• contractions becoming pressure rather than pain

For someone who has been laboring intensely, this moment often brings a powerful emotional response—relief, tears, or even laughter.

As the Medication Fully Sets In

As the epidural takes full effect:

• your legs may feel numb, tingly, or heavy
• you’ll remain in bed for safety
• contractions are still present, but far more manageable

You’re still mentally present and aware of your body—you’re not sedated or asleep.

The Emotional Experience of Getting an Epidural

Pain relief in labor isn’t just physical—it can shift your entire emotional state.

After hours of tension and adrenaline, the sudden drop in pain can feel overwhelming. Some people cry from relief. Others finally rest or sleep. For many, it’s the first moment they feel they can breathe again.

This emotional release is normal and often overlooked when people talk about epidurals.

Benefits and Tradeoffs of Epidurals

Benefits

• Strong and reliable pain relief
• Ability to rest during long or exhausting labor
• Can make complex or medically necessary interventions more manageable

Possible Tradeoffs

• Limited mobility during labor
• Pushing phase may take longer
• Labor sometimes slows, increasing the chance of additional interventions
• Possible side effects such as itching, a drop in blood pressure, or headaches (rare)

Is Getting an Epidural Scary?

Many people fear the idea of a needle in their back, but the actual experience is usually described as:

brief sting → unusual pressure → noticeable relief

Knowing what to expect can transform the experience from something frightening into something predictable and manageable.

There Is No “Right” Choice in Labor

Some people plan for an epidural, some plan to avoid one, and many decide in the moment. All of these paths are valid.

What matters most is understanding your options so you can make decisions that feel informed, supported, and right for your body and your birth experience.

The post How an Epidural Feels in Labor appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

There is a moment in every birth where everything shifts—where anticipation meets reality, and a new life takes its first breath. In cesarean births, that moment may happen behind a curtain, in a bright and sterile operating room, surrounded by monitors and a skilled medical team. But make no mistake: it is still a moment of profound transformation. It is still birth. And it is still deeply, undeniably beautiful.

For many, cesarean birth carries an emotional weight. Sometimes, birth doesn’t go as planned.
Hours—or even days—of labor can precede it.
It can arrive with urgency, fear, and the need to shift quickly to keep both parent and baby safe.
Within that sudden change, one of the most overlooked forms of strength emerges: surrender.

Choosing to surrender does not mean giving up; it is an act of trust.
It embodies a commitment to safety.
It is the promise: “No matter how my baby arrives, I will be there to meet them.”

There is beauty in that kind of love.

The Strength You Don’t Always See

Cesarean birth asks a lot of a birthing person—physically, emotionally, and mentally. It requires courage to walk (or be wheeled) into an operating room and place your body in the hands of others. It requires resilience to stay present while your body is opened and your baby is brought into the world in a way that can feel both surreal and overwhelming.

And yet, even there—especially there—you will find connection.

The gentle tug of your baby’s arrival may reach you.
That first cry can echo clearly through the room.
Eyes may meet your partner’s, a shared recognition that everything has just changed forever.

These moments are no less meaningful because they happen in surgery. They are etched just as deeply into memory. They are just as sacred.

A Different Kind of Birth Story

We often talk about birth in terms of plans—what we hope for, what we envision, what we prepare ourselves to experience. But birth is not a performance. It is not something that succeeds or fails based on how closely it follows a script.

Cesarean birth is not the “backup plan.”
It is not a “lesser” version of birth.
It is simply another path.

And for many families, it is the path that ensures a safe and healthy beginning.

Flexibility holds its own kind of grace.
Releasing expectations and meeting your birth as it unfolds carries a quiet strength.
Even when the story looks different than you imagined, it can still be deeply powerful in its own right.

The First Moments Still Matter

Even in a cesarean birth, there are opportunities for connection and intention.

A hand reaching down to touch your baby for the first time.
Skin-to-skin contact in the operating room or recovery space.
A partner whispering words of love as your baby enters the world.
A care team pausing to honor the moment, even in the midst of procedure.

These moments matter. They always have.

They are the beginning of your relationship with your child—not defined by how they arrived, but by the love that welcomed them.

Honoring the Healing

The beauty of a cesarean birth does not erase the reality of recovery. Healing from surgery while caring for a newborn is no small task. It requires patience, support, and compassion—especially for yourself.

There may be grief intertwined with gratitude.
There may be questions, processing, or a need to retell the story more than once.

All of that belongs.

Your experience is valid in its entirety—the strength and the softness, the pride and the ache. There is no single way to feel about a cesarean birth, and there is no right timeline for making peace with it.

Redefining What Birth Looks Like

When we widen the lens of what we consider “beautiful” in birth, we make space for more stories to be honored. We create room for truth over expectation, for safety over idealism, for real experiences over perfect narratives.

Cesarean birth is not something to be hidden or apologized for.
It is not a footnote in your story.

It is your story.

And within it lives courage, resilience, trust, and an overwhelming, undeniable love—the kind that brings a child into the world in exactly the way they needed to arrive.

A Final Truth

Behind the curtain, under the lights, surrounded by a team—there is a parent meeting their baby for the first time.

There is a first cry.
A first touch.
A first look.

That is birth.

And it is beautiful.

The post The Beauty of a C-Section Birth appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

As a doula, I’ve walked into countless hospital rooms where labor is unfolding in real time—sometimes slowly and peacefully, sometimes quickly and intensely. And almost every time, someone eventually says the same thing:

“I wish I had packed that.”

Packing your birth bag isn’t just about being prepared. It’s about creating a small sense of comfort and familiarity in a space that can feel very clinical and unfamiliar. When labor begins, the last thing you want is to be worrying about socks, phone chargers, or lip balm.

So from a doula who has seen a lot of birth bags—some brilliant and some… a little chaotic—here are the things I gently encourage my clients to bring.

Comfort Items for Labor

Labor is physical, emotional, and often unpredictable. Small comforts can make a big difference.

Comfortable robe or loose gown
Hospital gowns are practical, but many parents feel more relaxed in something that feels like their own clothing. A soft robe is perfect for walking the halls or staying cozy between contractions.

Warm socks or slippers
Labor rooms can get chilly, and warm feet go a long way toward overall comfort.

Lip balm
This is the item that people forget most often. Labor breathing can make your lips incredibly dry, and having lip balm nearby can feel like a tiny lifesaver.

Hair ties or headband
Once labor gets intense, hair in your face becomes very annoying very quickly.

Massage oil or lotion
If your partner or doula is providing back pressure or massage, a little lotion makes it far more comfortable.

Things That Help the Environment

One of the most helpful things you can do in labor is create a calm atmosphere. Hospitals are busy places, but you can still shape the environment around you.

Battery candles or soft lighting
Many hospital rooms are lit with bright fluorescent lights. Soft lighting can make the room feel calmer and more intimate.

A small speaker or playlist
Music can be grounding during labor. Some parents want calm music, others want complete silence—either way, it’s nice to have the option.

Essential oils (if allowed)
A familiar scent like lavender or peppermint can help some people relax or refocus during contractions.

Practical Must-Haves

These are the items that may not be glamorous, but they make life much easier.

Phone charger with a long cord
Hospital outlets are often in inconvenient places. A long charging cable saves a lot of frustration.

Snacks and drinks
Labor can be long. Having easy snacks for your partner—and sometimes for yourself depending on hospital policies—can make a big difference.

Copies of your birth preferences
While many hospitals document these in your chart, it can still be helpful to have a printed copy available for nurses and providers.

Insurance card and ID
Not exciting, but definitely important.

After Baby Arrives

The postpartum hours are tender, emotional, and often a little surreal. Having a few comforts ready helps you settle in.

A comfortable outfit for going home
Choose something soft and loose. Your body will still look about six months pregnant, and comfort is key.

A newborn outfit
Hospitals usually provide basics, but many parents love bringing a special outfit for the first trip home.

A simple toiletry kit
Toothbrush, face wash, deodorant, and a hairbrush can feel surprisingly refreshing after birth.

One Thing I Always Tell My Clients

The truth is, you don’t need a perfectly packed bag to have a beautiful birth. Hospitals provide many essentials, and if something is forgotten, someone can usually grab it.

But thoughtful preparation helps you feel grounded. It allows you to focus on what truly matters—moving through labor, welcoming your baby, and stepping into a moment that will change your life forever.

And from a doula’s perspective, the best thing you can pack in your birth bag isn’t an item at all.

It’s the intention to take your birth one moment at a time.

The post What should I pack in my birth bag? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

In the quietest hours of the night, I walk into birth spaces knowing something extraordinary is about to happen.

Sometimes the room feels electric. Other times it feels hushed and reverent. Either way, I can sense it — life is about to change forever.

And honestly? That responsibility humbles me every single time.

First, I Enter Gently

When I arrive, I don’t burst in with energy or direction. Instead, I ground myself. I lower my voice. I move with intention.

Because birth is not a production. It is not styled. It is not curated.

Rather, it is raw and unfolding in real time.

So I pay attention. I watch the way you sway through contractions. I notice how your partner presses their forehead against yours. I anticipate the shift in your breathing before the room even realizes it’s happening.

Above all, I protect the space. Your birth belongs to you — not to my camera. My role is to witness it faithfully and preserve it honestly.

Meanwhile, You Turn Inward

As labor deepens, you go somewhere primal. Your focus narrows. Time stretches and collapses all at once.

Because of that intensity, you won’t see everything.

You won’t see the awe on your partner’s face when you roar through a contraction.
You won’t see your own strength radiating from across the room.
You won’t see the exact second determination replaces fear in your eyes.

But I see it.

And more importantly, I document it so you can see it later.

That is when the magic often happens — not during labor itself, but afterward, when you look at your images and whisper, “I did that.”

No Two Births Ever Feel the Same

Over the years, I have stepped into candlelit living rooms and bright hospital suites. I have photographed peaceful water births and urgent cesarean births. I have watched plans unfold beautifully — and I have watched them pivot in unexpected ways.

Yet despite the differences, one truth remains: every birth demands courage.

So instead of measuring your story against anyone else’s, I focus on honoring it fully. Your strength does not depend on location. Your power does not disappear because plans change.

If anything, it shines even brighter in the unexpected moments.

Then — Everything Shifts

There is always a moment when the room changes.

As soon as your baby lands on your chest, the air softens. I see your shoulders drop. I see disbelief flood your face. I see your hands tremble as they touch this tiny human for the first time.

And suddenly, nothing else matters.

Not the hours of labor.
Not the exhaustion.
Not the uncertainty that came before.

In that instant, love takes over.

Every time I witness it, I feel it in my own chest too. Even after all these births, it still undoes me.

Ultimately, This Is About Legacy

Long after the details fade, these photographs remain.

Years from now, your child will see how fiercely you fought for them. They will see who held you steady. They will see the very first seconds of their story.

But just as importantly, you will see yourself.

You will see strength where you once felt doubt.
You will see beauty where you once felt undone.
You will see proof that you crossed a threshold and emerged transformed.

Because birth changes you.

And since that transformation happens only once in this exact way — this baby, this day, this version of you — I believe it deserves to be remembered with intention, reverence, and heart.

So when the call comes, I go.
When labor stretches long, I stay.
And when your world shifts forever, I quietly press the shutter — knowing this is a moment you will carry for the rest of your life.

The post Why should a family consider Birth Photography? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

When I talk with expecting parents, I often hear the same question asked in different ways:
What difference does it really make to have a doula and a birth photographer present at birth?

The simplest answer is this: birth is more than a medical event. It’s emotional, vulnerable, intense, and life-changing. And in those hours, having someone there who is focused entirely on you—and someone preserving the truth of your story—can shape not only how birth feels, but how it is remembered.

My Role as a Doula: Supporting You in the Moment

As a doula, my job is not to direct your birth or take over the room. It’s to listen, to notice, and to support you in a way that feels steady and grounding.

I’m there to help you trust what your body is doing. To remind you that the sensations you’re feeling are purposeful. To offer reassurance when things feel intense or unfamiliar. I support your partner, too—so they don’t feel like they have to hold everything on their own.

Hospitals and birth spaces are often busy, clinical places. Staff rotate. Policies change. In contrast, I stay. I hold continuity. I help create a sense of calm and safety so you can stay connected to yourself and your birth.

Why I Believe Birth Photography Matters

As a birth photographer, I witness things that are easy to miss in the moment.

You may not remember the way your partner looked at you when you were focused inward. You may not see the strength in your own body as it works so hard to bring your baby into the world. Hormones, exhaustion, and emotion can blur details quickly.

The photographs I take are not about perfection or performance. They are about truth. They document the connection, the power, the tenderness, and the transformation that happens in that room.

These images become part of your family’s story—not just for you, but for your child one day.

The Importance of Being Witnessed in Birth

One of the most meaningful parts of having a doula and birth photographer present is being seen.

Birth asks you to be vulnerable in ways most of us are not used to. When you are surrounded by people whose role is simply to witness without judgment, pressure, or expectation, it can be incredibly freeing.

I’ve seen how being witnessed helps people soften into their labor. How it allows them to feel safe enough to let go. How it changes the way they speak about their birth afterward—especially if it didn’t unfold exactly as planned.

Holding the Experience and the Memory

I often think of doula support as holding the experience of birth in real time, while birth photography holds the memory.

In the moment, I’m focused on your comfort, your emotional well-being, and the flow of the room. Later, the photographs allow you to revisit your birth with clarity and compassion. They help fill in the gaps, affirm your strength, and remind you of how deeply supported you were.

Together, these roles work hand in hand.

Birth Deserves Care, Presence, and Remembrance

Choosing to have a doula and birth photographer is not about adding more people to your birth. It’s about creating a container where you feel supported, respected, and deeply cared for during one of the most important days of your life.

Birth deserves to be remembered honestly.
And you deserve to be held—during it, and long after you look back.

If you’re feeling curious about what this kind of support might look like for your own birth, I’d love to connect. There’s no expectation and no rush—just a conversation to see if it feels like the right fit for you and your family. You deserve to feel supported, seen, and cared for as you prepare to welcome your baby, and I’m always happy to answer questions or talk things through when you’re ready.

The post The Benefits of Having a Doula and Birth Photographer appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Packing for a hospital birth can feel a little like packing for a trip you’ve never taken… to a place you don’t fully control… with a wildly unpredictable timeline. Fun, right?

As a birth photographer who’s been present for countless hospital births—and as a mom myself—I’ve seen what actually gets used, what gets forgotten, and what people wish they had packed at 3 a.m.

So let’s break it down. No fear-mongering. No overpacking panic. Just the good stuff.

The Essentials (a.k.a. Don’t Skip These)

These are the things you’ll almost definitely want during labor, delivery, or your hospital stay.

1. Photo ID, Insurance Card & Paperwork

Not exciting, but very necessary. Put these in an easy-to-reach pocket so you’re not digging through a tote bag mid-contraction.

2. Phone Charger (the Long One!)

Hospital outlets are never where you want them to be. A 10-foot charger is the real MVP of the hospital birth packing list.

3. Comfortable Clothing

Think:

• A loose robe
• A comfy bra or nursing bra
• Cozy socks (hospital floors are cold)
• Something soft to wear home

Pro tip: Pack clothes you don’t mind being photographed in—because those early moments are often captured.

Labor Comfort Items (Because Birth Is Work)

4. Lip Balm

Hospitals are dry. Labor breathing is real. Chapped lips are not the vibe.

5. Hair Ties or Headband

You’ll want your hair out of your face at some point. Trust me.

6. Essential Oils or a Familiar Scent

Smell is powerful. A favorite scent can ground you and make the room feel more like yours.

7. Your Birth Preferences (Printed)

Even if your care team is amazing, having a printed copy of your preferences can be helpful—especially during shift changes.

For Your Support Person (Yes, They Matter Too)

8. Snacks (Real Ones)

Hospital cafeterias close. Vending machines disappoint. Pack snacks that actually sustain energy—protein bars, trail mix, jerky, chocolate (obviously).

9. Change of Clothes

Birth doesn’t run on a schedule. Fresh clothes = happier support person.

Baby Basics (Hospitals Cover More Than You Think)

Hospitals usually provide diapers, wipes, and blankets, so don’t go overboard.

10. Going-Home Outfit

One adorable, comfy outfit is plenty. Bonus points if it photographs well.

11. Baby Nail File or Mittens

Some babies come out with talons. It happens.

Nice-to-Have (But Not Required)

12. Your Own Pillow

Hospital pillows are… fine. Your pillow is better.

13. A Playlist or Bluetooth Speaker

Music can help set the tone—calm, empowering, or “I need Beyoncé right now.”

14. A Keepsake Item

A letter to your baby, a special necklace, or something meaningful can be grounding and beautiful to photograph.

What You Can Leave at Home

Let’s keep it real:

• 7 outfit changes
• Full makeup kits (unless it brings you joy!)
• Every baby item you own

Less stuff = less to manage.

Final Thoughts From a Birth Photographer

You don’t need to pack for every possible scenario. You just need to pack for you.

Birth is raw, powerful, emotional, and unpredictable—and the most important things can’t be packed into a bag anyway. But a little preparation goes a long way in helping you feel calm, comfortable, and present.

And if you’re having your birth documented? These are the details that help your story unfold beautifully—exactly as it is.

The post What to Pack for a Hospital Birth appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Before we dive into the details, I have to share some happy personal news.

I was thrilled beyond belief when my lovely client from 2024 called and said she will be having baby #2 in November of 2025. So exciting! She let me know she would be giving birth at Saddleback Medical Center again and using an epidural.

Her call was a wonderful reminder that when someone has a positive, supported birth experience, they often choose what worked for them again. Let’s talk about what an epidural is, how it works, and why many birthing parents choose this option.

What is an Epidural?

An epidural is a form of pain relief commonly used during labor. It works by numbing the nerves that carry pain signals from the uterus and birth canal to the brain. The goal is to significantly reduce pain while allowing you to remain awake and alert for your baby’s birth.

Epidurals are administered by an anesthesiologist and are typically offered in hospital settings, including places like Saddleback Medical Center.

How is an Epidural Given?

The process usually looks like this:

1. Positioning: You’ll either sit up or lie on your side while curving your back outward.
2. Cleaning and numbing: The lower back is cleaned, and a local anesthetic is used to numb the skin.
3. Catheter placement: A thin catheter is placed into the epidural space in your lower back. The needle is then removed, leaving only the soft catheter.
4. Medication delivery: Pain-relief medication is delivered through the catheter, either continuously or in timed doses.

Once the epidural is effective, most people experience a significant reduction in contraction pain, typically within 10–20 minutes.

What Does an Epidural Feel Like?

People experience epidurals differently, but most report:

• Strong pain relief from contractions
• Pressure sensations still present
• Reduced sensation from the waist down
• Loss of the ability to walk (temporary)
• Legs feeling heavy, warm, or tingly

Many people can still feel contractions without the sharp pain, which can make labor feel more manageable and less exhausting.

Benefits of an Epidural

Epidurals can be a helpful tool for many birthing parents, especially when labor is long or intense. Benefits may include:

• Significant pain relief
• Ability to rest or sleep during labor
• Reduced stress and tension
• Helpful in certain medical situations
• Can make cervical exams or procedures more comfortable

For some, choosing an epidural allows them to stay present, calm, and emotionally grounded during birth.

Things to Consider

While epidurals are generally very safe, it’s important to understand possible trade-offs:

• Reduced mobility during labor
• Pushing stage may be longer
• Possible drop in blood pressure
• Temporary itching, shivering, or numbness
• Increased need for additional interventions in some cases

Having a supportive care team can help you adjust positions, stay comfortable, and continue progressing even with limited movement.

There Is No “Right” Way to Give Birth

Whether someone chooses an epidural, plans to avoid medication, or decides in the moment, what matters most is feeling informed, respected, and supported.

Hearing from returning clients—like my wonderful 2024 client expecting again in 2025—reinforces how personal and powerful birth choices are. When someone feels heard and cared for, they trust themselves and their decisions moving forward.

The post What Is an Epidural? A Clear, Honest Explanation for Expecting Parents appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

I have had a baby already. I am an experienced mom. Why would I need a doula for my second baby?

Why You Still Need a Doula for Your Second Birth

As I sit here on call, waiting for a family I had the honor of supporting during their first birth, I find myself reflecting on something I hear so often:
“Do I really need a doula for my second baby?”

It’s an honest question. You’ve done this before. You know how contractions feel, what labor might look like, how to breathe through the waves. You’ve experienced the power of birth firsthand.

But here’s what I’ve learned from standing beside families through their first, second, third — even sixth births:

No two births are ever the same.

Just because you’ve given birth before doesn’t mean this birth won’t bring its own emotions, rhythms, or unexpected turns. Your body might remember some of the process — but this body has changed. This baby is different. The circumstances of your life — your heart, your support system, your fears, your hopes — are not the same.

Birth is unpredictable — and that’s exactly why having a doula matters.

You don’t know how your labor will unfold — none of us do. Babies tend to keep their birth plans a secret until the very last moment. Most of the time, things go smoothly… but sometimes they don’t. And when the unexpected happens — physically, emotionally, or both — you deserve someone who can remain calm in the chaos and steady in the storm.

Doulas are trained to handle change.

When things shift, we don’t panic — we adapt.
We help you understand your options, find your voice, and stay grounded through every twist and turn.

You might find yourself exhausted, overwhelmed, or pushed to your emotional edge. Your partner might be, too. That’s when having someone in the room who’s calm, present, and experienced becomes everything — someone who can think clearly, advocate gently, and guide you through the intensity with compassion and strength.

Sometimes, second-time parents feel pressure to “have it all together.” To be the strong one, the experienced one. But birth is not a performance. It’s not about doing it better than last time — or even the same. It’s about surrendering — again — to the unknown, and being fully supported in it.

A doula isn’t there because you’re inexperienced.
A doula is there because you’re human.

We’re there to hold space for your emotions, to protect your environment, and to gently guide your partner in offering meaningful support. We’re there to notice the moments you might miss, to advocate for your wishes, and to keep you anchored when things get intense.

Sometimes second births are faster. Sometimes they’re not.
Sometimes they’re more emotional, more healing, more overwhelming than the first.
And sometimes, the need for continuous, unwavering support is even greater — especially when there’s a toddler at home, past trauma to process, or new fears rising up.

Having a doula isn’t about whether or not you can do it.
Of course you can. You already have.

It’s about knowing you don’t have to do it alone.

The post Do I need a doula for a second baby? appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

Do I have to lie on my back to deliver my baby?

What happens during a hospital labor and birth depends greatly on your advocacy and your OB. It is important for you to speak about options with your OB before you head to the hospital to birth. Making sure they are open to what you want and need is crucial to avoid being super uncomfortable at the hospital. If they are not open to your wishes, it is never too late to find a different OB.

One option to ask your OB is if they are open to birthing in different positions, not just on your back and your legs in stirrups. Now, I have heard OBs say to clients, “Of course you can labor in different positions.” However, that wasn’t your question. Your question is birthing in different positions. That is a HUGE difference. You may end up feeling that your back is the best way for you at the time, but maybe in that moment, it is better if you stand, be on all fours, or be in a side-lying position. An OB should really be the guide and help if there is a complication, and allow you the freedom to birth as you wish. If they are not or are sticklers for being on your back, then you need to decide if that is the right OB for you.

What If I Want Delayed Cord Clamping?

Your idea and your OB’s idea of delayed cord clamping may be vastly different. Again, I believe in hospitals and doctors, and if there is an emergency, there is no other place I would want to be. That said, having babies is a numbers game. Quick in and quick out, make room for the next family. For most OBs (huge generalization here), their idea of cord clamping is about a minute to, at most, 5 minutes. They want to sew you up (if needed for tearing), make sure there is no excess bleeding and move on.

The reason for delayed cord clamping is to allow for the transfer of blood and stem cells from the placenta to the newborn. These benefits include increased blood volume, improved iron stores, and potentially better neurodevelopmental outcomes. So, for these reasons, delayed cord clamping should be done until the cord turns white. That means all the goodies have gone to the baby, and there are none left in the cord. This, generally speaking, is going to be longer than 5 minutes. It could be up to 10 minutes. That is a long time in a doctor’s world. It is important to talk to them before your baby’s birth date. This should be included in your birth preference plan.

What if A Different Doctor is Delivering my Baby?

You may be surprised how often this happens. I would say it is about 50/50, in my experience, that a family’s chosen OB does the actual delivery. It is important that you give and have the on-call OB (as well as the nurses) know that you have a birth preference plan. The on-call OB needs to know your wishes. This is where advocacy for yourself is super important because now you need to start over with this new on-call OB, and make sure you convey the importance of your wishes.

What about the Golden Hour?

After the whirlwind of giving birth, you’ll find yourself in a magical moment of bonding with your new family. There’s a soft hush in the room, punctuated only by the gentle sounds of your newborn’s breaths. For about an hour, you’ll have the precious opportunity to soak in this new reality.

However, the first 15-30 minutes might feel like a bustling hive of activity, with nurses coming in and out, checking vital signs, and ensuring everything is just right. But don’t let that distract you; once those initial flurries settle down, you’ll be left with 30-45 minutes of uninterrupted togetherness. This Golden Hour is generally given unless there is some issue with you or baby.

What about newborn shots?

This is something they will ask if you want. That is entirely up to you.

The vitamin K shot: Newborns have low levels of Vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting.

Eye Drops: Eye drops (often erythromycin) are given to prevent conjunctivitis (eye infection) caused by certain bacteria that can be present during delivery. 

Hepatitis B Vaccine: This vaccine protects against Hepatitis B virus, which can cause liver damage. The first dose is usually given within 24 hours, with subsequent doses at 1-2 months and 6-18 months.

To learn more about vaccines at the hospital, you can follow this link to UCLA Health

In Summery

I truly hope you found Parts I, II, and III helpful. I want to encourage you to consider hiring a doula (like me!) if you ever feel uncertain about navigating the hospital. Having a supportive guide can make all the difference in your experience.

Going solo is absolutely okay, but be mindful of the potential for information overload. It’s easy to get lost in the sea of links and resources, spiraling down a rabbit hole that might leave you feeling overwhelmed. A doula can help you stay focused and ensure you have the right information at the right time.

Investing in this support can provide peace of mind and empower you to make informed decisions throughout your journey. Your experience matters, and having a dedicated advocate by your side could turn what may feel like a daunting journey into a more manageable and positive one. Consider the benefits—it could be the best choice you make!

The post What Really Happens in Labor Part III appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.

What Happens During Labor in the Hospital?

So, you are in active labor (5 cm or more) and the hospital has deemed you “ready” for a birthing room. So off you go. At this point, you call or text your doula and photographer and let them know which room you are in, so they can come and meet you there.

The room will be fairly large since it must accommodate a team of nurses, your OB, the heating table for the baby, the bed, medical equipment, and usually a couch that can double as a bed for your partner. It will also have a bathroom and usually a shower.

If you are not into “hospitally” stuff (really, who is?), it’s important to bring things that will help you relax and feel safe.

What Can I do during a Hospital Birth to feel more Comfortable?

1. Your Own Gown

2. Electric Candles

3. Birth Affirmations

4. Your Own Music. This can be played on the hospital speakers (in your room) often times.

5. Aromatherapy. I have only been to one hospital that allowed a diffuser. However, Amazon has little patches of aromatherapy tabs. They can be found here.

What Happens During a Hospital Labor

Ok, so you have your creature comforts, you are in active labor and are now in your birthing room. What now?

Let us assume you are doing a natural birth without an epidural.

Now it is a waiting game. What I mean by that is, you will hopefully continue having your contractions. They will become more intense as time goes on. They will become quicker until they are on top of each other. And then you have a baby.

Now, all of the stuff in between. If you go to the hospital too soon and they still admit you, the likelihood of you asking for an epidural can increase. Why is that? Labor can take a while, and you get tired. Being completely exhausted is a real reason epidurals are asked for. You simply get too tired and cannot take on contractions while exhausted. In other words, really stick to that 5-1-1 rule (part I in the blog)and stay home as long as possible.

It is important to relax and listen to your body. Yes, labor progresses quicker if you are using the UFO method. That is you are in an Upright, Forward-facing, and in an Open position. Movement is your best friend during labor. However, if you feel you need to rest or sleep, please go with that. Never think taking a nap will stall labor. You can move afterwards, as you are in for a lengthy stay. If you can catch little cat naps in the early active stage, you will likely have more stamina for the more intense time later on.

What if I Feel Pressured by Labor Nurses or my OB during Labor?

In no way am I stereotyping here, so please save the hate mail. I am only speaking from my own experience, having been to many births.

There may be times when a nurse will check your dilation. Remember, this is an elective procedure. In no way feel like you must comply. If you are listening to your body and you don’t want to be checked, you have every right to voice that. But if you do want it and you have not progressed much over a specific amount of time, they may strongly suggest interventions.

The suggestions may be said in such a way as to make you feel like it is the best thing in the whole world. I have heard things like, “if you would like to have a little Pitocin to move things along, you could be holding your baby much sooner”. I have also heard, “You are so close, we could break your water and baby will be here in no time at all”. Now these statements sound very reasonable right? Nothing pushy about it, correct? But imagine you are so exhausted, perhaps in a lot of pain, and someone throws out one of these “life preserver” statements. Right at your most vulnerable, the chances of you jumping at it, is high. In no way am I saying any of these interventions are bad or wrong, but if you have it in your mind, you are doing this as naturally as possible, these statements that nurses say, can go against what you want, and when you are vulnerable, you take it.

Adding Questions to Your Birth Plan

When I do birth plans with clients, I always ask them, “Do you want staff to offer interventions or do you want to wait to ask yourself?” This is hugely important. It’s totally ok, if you decide to have interventions, but make it on your terms. You or your partner ask for them. When you are offered options at a vulnerable moment during labor, those options can change the course of your birth dramatically.

Using Your B.R.A.I.N. During Labor

Whenever you are given an option to do something, such as getting a little Pitocin, breaking the water, getting an epidural, always use the acronym BRAIN.

For example, an OB says, “Would you like a little Pitocin since it seems your labor has stalled”? First of all, yes, your contractions can slow down or become less intense. Some practitioners call this “failure to progress”. What a nasty little term THAT is! As necessary as I feel hospitals are, they are often run on numbers. If they can’t get you delivered and moved to the maternity ward quickly enough (opening up the room for another birthing person), then they may look for ways to speed you up. Contractions slowing down or becoming less intense are often part of labor. If you and baby are doing fine, then, in reality, they should just leave you alone. However, they don’t always do that.

B. in BRAIN

Ask what the benefits are. In the example above, ask your OB, what benefits are there to me and baby if I have Pitocin?

R. in BRAIN

What are the risks? If I get Pitocin, what are the risks of that?

A. in BRAIN

What are the alternatives? If I don’t get Pitocin, what can I do instead?

I. in BRAIN

What does your intuition tell you? Do you feel Pitocin is the right thing to do?

N. in BRAIN

What if you do nothing? What will happen if I do not do Pitocin or any alternatives? Even if for a little while.

Part III

Part III will come out in a day or two. That part will be pretty short, but vital!

The post What Really Happens During Labor Part II appeared first on BIRTH AND BEAUTY.