Bump & Beyond

What To Expect During Labor

Labor and birth are incredible milestones in your journey to becoming a parent. Whether this is your first baby or you’ve done this a few times before, it’s natural to have questions about what to expect during labor.

All What To Expect During Labor Resources

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Medical Induction of Labor

Many people who go past their due date may have an induction of labor, which is when a provider starts your labor using various methods in the hospital or at home.

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What To Expect During LaborWhat To Expect During Labor

Peeing and Pooping During Labor and Delivery

Peeing in labor helps your care team understand how hydrated you are. You may also get a catheter during your labor and delivery. As for poop, it’s normal to poop during labor. After your birth, try to take enough stool softeners or laxatives medication to make your poop like toothpaste.

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Delayed Cord Clamping

Summary

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How to Tell if You’re in Labor

If you think you’re in labor, call us right away! We can help you decide if you should come to the hospital or wait at home. Here are some signs that labor might be starting, and other signs to watch for.

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Planning Your Next Birth After a C-Section

If you had a C-section with your last birth, you now have two choices as to how to give birth to your new baby. Some women plan to have another C-section (called an elective or planned repeat cesarean birth), while others plan to have the baby vaginally (called a vaginal birth after cesarean, or VBAC).

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Everything You Need to Know About Labor Induction

Induction of labor is when medicines or treatments are used to start labor, before it starts on its own. Labor induction takes time and may be longer than you expect. It may feel different from labor that starts on its own.

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Support During Your Labor and Birth

Having support can be very helpful during labor and birth. Your support person may be your partner, a friend, a family member, or the father of the baby. In addition to your support person, you can also have a doula present at your delivery. The choice is yours, but make sure to plan ahead of time for the support you need.

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What to Expect in Labor and Birth

Every birth is unique, but knowing what typically happens during labor can help you feel more prepared and confident. Here’s what you may experience during early labor, active labor, transition, pushing and birth, and delivery of the placenta.

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Unmedicated Labor Options and Comfort Techniques

Most people who give birth will need some support to manage the pain of contractions. There are many safe and helpful ways to increase your chances of coping well throughout the process, such as childbirth education, doula support, and hydrotherapy.

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Explore the Next Phases of Pregnancy

Peek ahead to what's next or dive right into our full resource collection. Either way, we hope you feel supported with what you need as you continue on your pregnancy journey!

Explore All Phases
Newborn Care

Newborn Care

There's a lot to discover as you start to care for your baby. Learn practical information on how to care for your baby as you get to know them.

 Postpartum Experience

Postpartum Experience

It's important to take care of yourself while you're taking care of your new baby. Learn tips for healing and getting the confidence you need as you start your new life.

 During Pregnancy

During Pregnancy

As your journey begins, learn what to expect and how to stay healthy and prepare yourself for everything that's ahead during pregnancy. 

 Labor and Birth

Labor and Birth

Whether it's your first baby or you've done this before, learn the information you need to feel informed and supported during labor and your stay at BMC.