Healthy Pregnancy & Childbirth
Breastfeeding Quiz
Breastfeeding is filled with benefits to your child and you. Do you know what they are?
Giving Birth: A New Life Begins
Labor
Labor has probably started if your contractions are getting stronger; your contractions are regular (you feel them about every 5 minutes) and are getting more painful; you have pink-colored or blood-streaked fluid from your vagina; or your water breaks.
Vaginal Birth
Once your cervix becomes fully dilated, you can begin pushing. At this point you may have a burst of energy. The delivery itself may take a few contractions or a few hours. If your baby needs help getting out of the birth canal, your healthcare provider can assist.
Cesarean Birth
Cesarean births can be planned. But in most cases, a cesarean is not expected. A cesarean may be needed because of concerns about the baby, the mother, or the baby’s passage through the birth canal.
After Delivery
After any type of birth, your recovery will be closely monitored. You'll likely be able to greet your baby and start your new life together. While you're being cared for, your baby receives his or her first exam.