Relaxation and labor might seem like two contradictory concepts, but relaxing while giving birth is actually achievable if you use the right techniques and have the support of a good birth partner. In fact, being able to remain relaxed throughout your labor will help you have a more positive birth experience. Read on to learn more about the benefits of relaxation in labor and how to achieve it.Benefits of RelaxationStress is never good for an expecting mother, particularly during labor when the ...

As you near your due date, you might start wondering whether you should opt for a normal vaginal delivery or a Cesarean delivery. In order for you to make an informed decision and discuss things comfortably with your doctor, you might want to learn a bit more about what a C-section is and when it is usually performed.What is it?A Cesarean delivery, also known as a C-section, is a surgical procedure used to deliver your baby through an incision in your abdomen and uterus. Some C-sections are plan...

Getting a C-section is inevitable when there are certain factors that hinder a normal vaginal delivery, but a C-section is not always chosen due to medical necessity; you can have an elective Cesarean if you prefer. Many women these days are opting for elective Cesareans due to various reasons discussed below. If you’re thinking of following suit, make sure you’re aware of both the advantages and the risks of C-sections before making your final decision. Your doctor will be able...

Childbirth is not always a textbook process, and doctors will sometimes need to give nature a little push by taking measures to trigger contractions and speed up labor to ensure the safe delivery of the baby and safeguard the mother’s health when the need arises. If you’re wondering whether you should discuss inducing labor with your doctor, it might be a good idea to learn about the process, the reasons behind it and the risks involved first.Reasons for Induced LaborYour doctor migh...

As explained in Inducing Labor: Reasons & Risks, labor induction can sometimes be a necessity. There are different techniques to inducing labor, some of which are medical while others are natural. Read on to learn the different options available to you and discuss them with your doctor to determine which would be more suitable in your case. Medical Ways to Induce LaborThe method of labor induction depends on the dilation, softness and effacement of the cervix, whereby all three aspects ...

Let’s face it; while having a baby might be a wonderful and rewarding experience, childbirth and labor tend to be more of a grueling and less-than-thrilling process. That is why many women opt for pain killers and anesthetics during childbirth, saving themselves the pain of what could be a 15-hour labor, if not longer. One of the more commonly used anesthetics is epidural anesthesia, but before you decide on whether you’d like to ask your doctor to use it, take a moment to learn...