- hospital procedures (IV, catheters, fetal monitoring)
- medications for pain relief (epidural anesthesia and IV medications)
- cesarean birth (c-section)
- emotional relaxation
Childbirth Class Lesson
Now that we've talked about normal labor, let's talk about interventions, complications, pain relief and other medications. You'll learn about the "normal" medications used in labor like epidurals, you'll also learn about some newer techniques for pain relief like sterile papule injections. We'll also talk about what happens during a cesarean, when one might be necessary (before or during labor) and how to make it a family centered surgery. Choosing what works for you and knowing options and alternatives are key components of class number five.
Helpful Links
Drugs for Birth
Should you take drugs during your labor or birth?
Birth Videos
Watch labor from the inside out...
Cesarean Section Quiz
With the cesarean rates on the rise, test your knowledge of this common birth surgery to see how your knowledge stacks up.
Common Labor Interventions
We all hope that childbirth will go smoothly. Most women are dreaming of a nice, quick labor and birth. However, some women will have complications or require interventions due to issues like induction. Some of these interventions include: IV, fetal monitoring, breaking your water with an amnihook, forceps or a vacuum extractor. Here is information on these practices in labor and birth, including what they are and how to try to avoid them.
IV Medications: Birth Stories
Share a story or learn from others births. A birth story is a great way to get a glimpse of birth.
Postpartum Hemorrhage
Hemorrhage is not something that we want to think about when it comes to giving birth. In fact, 95% of births will not have a problem with hemorrhage. However it is important to know the risk factors for hemorrhage and discuss your personal risk factors with your doctor or midwife.
Family Centered Cesareans
Information on cesarean surgery and how you can make it more family centered. Including tips on recovery and a photo gallery.
