Skip to main content

Posts

Post-Induction Recovery: What to Expect After Induced Labor

Labor induction is a common and often necessary part of childbirth, helping bring babies safely into the world when nature needs a little assistance. But after an induced labor, many new moms wonder what to expect during the recovery process. Whether your induction was straightforward or involved several interventions, understanding the recovery phase can help you feel more prepared and confident as you adjust to postpartum life. Here’s what you need to know about post-induction recovery, including the physical, emotional, and practical aspects of healing after induced labor. Physical Recovery After Induced Labor Induced labor can take a variety of paths, and your recovery will depend on the specific methods used and the outcome of your delivery. Here’s what you might experience physically: 1. Uterine Cramping and Bleeding After any delivery, your uterus begins the process of contracting back to its pre-pregnancy size. This can cause cramping, known as afterpains, which may feel more p...
Post a Comment
Read more
Recent posts

Meconium Fluid in Labor: What Does It Mean?

  When you’re preparing for labor and delivery, you may hear about a variety of possible scenarios that can arise during childbirth. One term that might come up is meconium-stained amniotic fluid —and understandably, it can sound a bit concerning if you’re not familiar with it. If you’ve ever wondered what meconium fluid means and how it might affect your labor experience, you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about meconium fluid in labor: what it is, why it happens, what it means for you and your baby, and how it’s typically managed during delivery. What Is Meconium Fluid? Let’s start with the basics. Meconium is the medical term for your baby’s first bowel movement. It’s a sticky, greenish-black substance made up of things like amniotic fluid, skin cells, and lanugo (the fine hair that covers your baby in utero). Normally, meconium is passed after birth—usually within the first 24 hours of life. However, sometimes meconium is released while the ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Do I Need an IV in Labor?

  One of the most common questions expecting moms ask as they prepare for labor is, “Will I need an IV?” It’s a good question—after all, labor and delivery are deeply personal experiences, and knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and in control. The short answer is: It depends. Whether or not you need an IV in labor often comes down to your health, your birth plan, and how your labor progresses. In this post, we’ll explore what having an IV during labor means, why it’s sometimes necessary, and what your options are if you prefer to go without one. What Does an IV Do During Labor? An intravenous (IV) line is a small, flexible tube inserted into a vein, usually in your hand or arm, to deliver fluids, medications, or nutrients directly into your bloodstream. In the context of labor and delivery, an IV is often used for: Hydration : Labor can be physically demanding, and staying hydrated is crucial. An IV ensures you receive fluids if you’re unable to drink enough on ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Active Management of the Second Stage of Labor: What It Means and How It Works

  Labor is a marathon, and by the time you reach the second stage, you’re in the final stretch. This is the moment when your body is fully dilated, your baby is ready to descend, and it’s time to push. For many, it’s exciting, intense, and exhausting all at once. One approach to this stage is called active management of the second stage of labor , a method often used by healthcare providers to help ensure a smooth delivery. But what does it actually mean, and how does it work? In this post, we’ll break down what active management involves, the benefits and potential challenges, and how a doula can provide invaluable support during this critical phase of labor. What Is the Second Stage of Labor? To understand active management, it helps to first clarify what the second stage of labor entails. This stage begins when you’re fully dilated (10 cm) and ends with the delivery of your baby. It’s typically divided into two phases: The Latent Phase This is the period between full dilation an...
Post a Comment
Read more

Waterbirth and Medical Induction: Can They Work Together?

  Waterbirth is a beautiful and calming option for many birthing people, offering a gentle and supportive environment for both mom and baby. On the other hand, medical induction is sometimes necessary to encourage labor when nature needs a little assistance. But what if you’re interested in combining these two approaches? Is it possible to have a waterbirth after being medically induced? The short answer is: It depends on your specific circumstances and the policies of your birthing location. In this blog post, we’ll explore how waterbirth and medical induction can intersect, what to consider if you’re hoping for both, and how a doula can support you in achieving your ideal birth experience. What is a Waterbirth? Waterbirth involves laboring and/or delivering your baby in a tub or pool of warm water. Many people choose waterbirth for its natural pain relief, relaxation benefits, and the gentle transition it offers for the baby. It can take place in a hospital, birth center, or even...
Post a Comment
Read more

Operative Delivery: Forceps and Vacuum Extraction Explained

  Labor and delivery can be unpredictable, and while many births proceed without complications, there are times when additional assistance is needed to safely bring a baby into the world. This is where operative deliveries —using tools like forceps or a vacuum extractor—come into play. If you’re planning for childbirth, understanding what operative delivery entails can help you feel more prepared in case it becomes part of your experience. In this post, we’ll explain what forceps and vacuum extraction are, when they might be used, the benefits and risks, and how a doula can provide support during these situations. What Is an Operative Delivery? An operative delivery, also called an assisted vaginal delivery, involves the use of medical instruments to help guide the baby out of the birth canal. This is usually done during the second stage of labor (pushing phase) when the baby is close to being born but needs a little extra help. There are two main tools used in operative deliveries...
Post a Comment
Read more

Artificial Rupture of Membranes: What You Need to Know

Childbirth involves numerous decisions, and understanding the procedures your care team might recommend is a key part of feeling informed and empowered during labor. One such procedure is artificial rupture of membranes (AROM) , often called “breaking your water.” While AROM is a routine practice in many births, it’s essential to understand what it involves, why it’s done, and the potential benefits and risks. This evidence-based guide will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about AROM and how it may fit into your birth plan. What Is Artificial Rupture of Membranes (AROM)? During pregnancy, the baby is surrounded by amniotic fluid inside the amniotic sac, a protective environment that cushions and supports the baby’s development. Typically, this sac breaks naturally at some point during labor—a moment often referred to as your “water breaking.” AROM is a medical procedure where a healthcare provider manually breaks the amniotic sac using a sterile in...
Post a Comment
Read more