Labor & Delivery & Postpartum Support

Labor and Delivery Education

Watch this video to help learn how to spot early signs of labor, what happens during each stage, ways to manage pain, the differences between types of birth, and how to prepare for assisted deliveries, emergencies, or NICU care if needed.

youtube-video-thumbnail

What Expectant Parents Need to Know

Labor and delivery education is essential for preparing expectant parents for what to expect during childbirth. Classes like Lamaze help teach breathing techniques, pain management, and the important role of a support person throughout the birth experience. Key topics include recognizing early signs of labor, understanding the difference between true and false labor, knowing when to go to the hospital, and identifying emergency situations. Families learn about the stages of labor, available pain relief options, how to create a birth plan, and the differences between vaginal and cesarean births—including VBAC. Additional information on vacuum or forceps-assisted delivery, transportation planning, and hospital communication helps ensure readiness. It’s also important to discuss preterm birth and NICU care when needed, offering peace of mind through preparation.

  • What types of labor and delivery classes, such as Lamaze, are available to expectant parents, and how can support persons play an active role during labor and birth?
  • How can pregnant individuals recognize the early signs of true labor versus false labor, and when should they seek medical attention or go to the hospital?
  • What are the different stages of labor, and what pain relief options are typically available during each stage?
  • What are the key differences between vaginal birth, cesarean delivery, and VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), and what should parents know about assisted deliveries using vacuum or forceps?
  • Why is it important to plan ahead for transportation to the hospital, know when to notify the hospital of your arrival, and understand the possibility of preterm birth or NICU care if complications arise?

Each story holds wisdom—continue learning with us.