After completing the admissions process, you will proceed to Labor & Delivery, which is located on the third floor of the hospital. Upon your arrival, you will be assisted to your room and asked to change into a hospital gown. A labor and delivery nurse will greet you and complete a full assessment of you and your baby.

Labor Discomfort

Labor may cause discomfort, and many women wish to have some method of pain relief during their labor. These methods include meditation, visualization, rhythmic breathing, emotional support, medications, and epidural.

It is best to discuss your options with your physician or midwife and nurse and together make decisions about what is best for you during your labor.

Helpful Hints for Labor and Birth

Once you are in active labor, there are a few important things to keep in mind to assist you in achieving a positive birth experience:

• Communicate with your medical team. Let them know what you need and ask questions when you are unsure about medical procedures or when you want to know how your labor is progressing.
• Personalize your surroundings. Our birthing rooms are very comfortable, but you can make changes that will help you feel at home, such as bringing your own pillow or playing music.
• Change positions frequently. Walking in the halls or sitting in a rocker - if your nurse says it is safe to do so -will help labor to progress. Even just sitting in an upright position will help.
• Remain mentally flexible. Use techniques such as relaxation or controlled breathing to adapt to your individual labor pattern. Be open to things happening differently than you may have expected.
• Stay hydrated. Once expectant mothers are admitted to Labor and Deliver, their diet will be restricted to small sips of water, ice chips, popsicles and hard candy. Intravenous fluids may be provided to assist in maintaining hydration.
• Above all, stay positive and have confidence in yourself and your body. Our staff is here to support you and your family during this exciting time.

Learn More: What to Expect After You Deliver.