Labor
Labor usually starts two weeks before or after the estimated date of delivery. No one knows exactly what triggers the onset of labor.
Delivery
In preparation of the delivery, you may be moved into a birthing room or delivery room, or you may remain in the same room for both labor and delivery.
Cesarean Delivery
Cesarean delivery is the surgical delivery of a baby by an incision through the mother's abdomen and uterus. This procedure is performed when it is determined to be a safer method than a vaginal delivery for the mother, baby, or both.
Episiotomy
During childbirth, the vagina may not stretch enough. If this occurs, your health care provider may perform an episiotomy to help enlarge the opening and deliver the baby.
Cord Blood Banking
Cord blood banking is an option for parents who want to preserve the blood of the umbilical cord and placenta of their baby as “insurance” to help with possible future medical needs of their child.