Childbirth Options

  • Epidurals Potentially Cause Fevers During Labor

    A recent study found that more women undergoing an epidural run a fever during labor. As mother's temperature rose, the baby was more likely to experience problems.

  • Home Birth Advocate's Own Home Birth Ends Tragically

    In a sadly ironic moment, Caroline Lovell of Australia, an outspoken advocate for legal protection and midwife funding in Australia, died on January 24th, 24-hours after being rushed to the hospital during labor.

  • Five Birthing Options to Consider

    Have you decided which birthing options will be best for your family? While many moms decide to give birth in hospitals, others seek out alternatives that fit their lifestyles.

  • C-Section: Not What They Were Expecting

    Experts say the advice women receive prior to discharge from hospital after c-section needs to be revised to consider the context of women's and their families' lived reality.

  • Lifetime Interview with Dr. Jones and Nurse Amanda from "One Born Every Minute"

    We recently had an exclusive opportunity to connect with Dr. Stuart Jones and one of his head nurses, Amanda Monaghan of "One Born Every Minute," on LifetimeTV. See what they have to say about the show and the families!

  • Multiple births: Many for the Price of One

    There's an alarming increase in women having multiple babies at one time. What's causing this statistic to rise and what does it mean?

  • Preparing for Childbirth

    Knowing what to expect when it comes time for labor and delivery can help ease any anxiety you may have about the birth process, especially if this is your first baby.

  • Beyond the Birth Plan: Building Your Birth Philosophy Over 35

    There are many philosophies about giving birth. Some support a completely natural experience with no drugs. Some tout the benefits of certain structured breathing procedures and positions during birth.

  • Questions to Ask Your Doctor About: Epidurals

    Here is a list of questions you'll want to ask your doctor about epidurals and if it is right for you!

  • Bradley Method of Childbirth

    Dr. Robert Bradley developed this method in the late 1940's. The Bradley method emphasizes an extremely natural approach, with few or no drugs and little medical help during labor and delivery. Stressing good diet and exercise during pregnancy, it teaches deep relaxation techniques to manage pain, and educates a woman's husband or partner so they can be an effective coach. Read more.

  • Home Birth Advocate's Own Home Birth Ends Tragically

    In a sadly ironic moment, Caroline Lovell of Australia, an outspoken advocate for legal protection and midwife funding in Australia, died on January 24th, 24-hours after being rushed to the hospital during labor.

  • Perineal Massage

    Perineal massage is the gentle stretching and massaging of the skin between the anus and vagina (perineum) during the last few weeks of pregnancy. This massage has been shown to reduce the incidence of episiotomy and perineal tears during birth.

  • Ensuring Natural Labour and Delivery

    QUESTION

    Dear Midwife,
    I am 26 years old and 36 weeks pregnant with my first child. I am passionate about having the most natural birth experience possible (although, having said that, I am not having a home birth for this one - I'd like one "under my belt" before going that route!).

  • Nitrous Oxide Analgesia for Child Birth

    So many women could use is a "middle path;" a mild analgesic that could be safely used during birth, with little or no effects on the baby. It would be okay if this analgesic let in some pain. It would make all the difference to have just "a little something to take the edge off."

  • Choosing a Hospital and Doctor

    There are major differences in the way doctors and hospitals approach pregnancy and delivery. I'd like to spend the next few minutes making you a savvy consumer. The hospital is the most important choice you will make with regards your pregnancy. Is it baby friendly? Can it care for preterm babies? Take these and more into consideration when making your decision.

  • Using Narcotics for Pain Relief During Childbirth

    Many women choose to use some type of method to deal with pain during childbirth. As you prepare for your labor experience it is important to become educated ahead of time on what different pain medications are available, how they work, as well as what the risks and benefits are.

  • Is There a "Cure" for Fear of Pregnancy?

    QUESTION

    Dear Relationship Expert,
    I am afraid of pregnancy. My fear is really strong. My wanting a baby overcomes the fear but the fear is still there. My husband and I are currently trying to conceive. I have thought about it and I think I may have illuminated a couple possibilities of fears.

  • C.C.: A Story of Courage

    by C.C. Howell

  • Partner Support During Pregnancy

    During pregnancy, the most important thing is having support. Anai Rhoads shares ideas for partner support both during and after pregnancy.

  • Hypnobirth Tip #1: Getting Started

    Hypnosis is very simply: Focused concentration. It is a natural state of mind in which the body and mind are very relaxed and yet the mind is also highly aware and focused. The pregnant woman can choose to enter, stay in, or come out of hypnosis at will.