LABOR AND PRETERM LABOR

A typical pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks. Labor often starts between 38 and 41 weeks of pregnancy. The more you know about the signs of labor, the more prepared you will be when it starts. Click here to learn how to tell when labor starts.

Preterm labor is labor that starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Going into preterm labor does not mean that you will have a preterm birth, but it can happen. Some things make you more likely to have preterm labor and premature birth.

You are at higher risk if:

• You smoke.

• You have a record of premature delivery.

• You are carrying more than one baby.

• You have other complications.

Click here and here to learn more.

If you think you are going into preterm labor, don’t wait - call your doctor right away.  

MAKE A BIRTH PLAN

A birth plan is instructions about what you want before, during, and after labor and delivery. It can help you have a more positive birth experience. It can also keep communication open between you and hospital workers.

There can be a lot of things to think about for your birth plan. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Things to talk to your doctor about:

• How many people can I have with me?

• Could I be induced?

• What are my choices for pain management?

• What if I need other medical procedures?

• Will you be my doctor at delivery? Or could I have someone else?

• Who do I call if I think I’m in labor?

• Other things to keep in mind:

• What to pack in a bag and have ready for the hospital.

• Plans for the care of other children in your home and/or pets.

• How do you plan to get to the hospital? Do you have a back-up plan?

• Do you have the name of the doctor you will see after you give birth? 

Your birth plan should be unique to you and how you wish to prepare for and heal from labor and delivery. Click here to learn more and get a template for writing your birth plan.

Any birth plan can change based on the medical needs of you and your baby during labor. Make sure you have someone with you during labor who can help ask questions, advocate for your needs, and be a support system for you should your plans need to change along the way.

BIRTHING CLASSES

Birthing classes can help you prepare for giving birth. They may cover things like signs of labor, stages of labor, and how to prepare to bring your newborn home. These classes are often offered at hospitals or birthing centers.

Pampers® Childbirth Education Classes have free online videos to help you learn about what to expect during pregnancy and giving birth. Click here to sign up for their free education series. 

Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) is a free home visit program. They can help you learn what to expect during pregnancy and giving birth. You must be a first-time mother and 28 weeks pregnant or less to qualify.

A trained nurse will visit your home to give you support, help, and tips. They will start coming by during your pregnancy. They will keep coming by during your pregnancy and after you give birth.

You can also check with the place you plan to give birth at to see if they offer birthing classes.