Labor & Delivery

You're expecting to give birth soon. But will you know when it's time? Let's learn about some common signs of labor.

Sometimes we need to help your uterus start the process of childbirth. We call this "labor induction." Most often, we do it to avoid danger to your health, or the health of your baby. It does have risks. But we recommend it when the benefits outweigh the risks.

This injection of anesthetic numbs your lower body. It keeps you from feeling the pain of a C-section, or the pain of childbirth. You'll be awake and alert during and after this injection.

This injection of medicine blocks the pain of childbirth. We give it to you through your lower back. After the injection, you'll still be awake and alert. You'll be able to push to deliver the baby.

This is when a baby is born early. A full-term pregnancy lasts 40 weeks. A preterm delivery is one that happens before the baby reaches 37 weeks of pregnancy. We say the baby is "premature."

This is the most common way a pregnant woman gives birth. It's when the baby is pushed out through the vagina. Let's learn more about what your body goes through in delivery.

This is the delivery of a baby through an incision in your belly. Some c-sections are planned ahead of time. Some are done because of an emergency.

After you give birth, your body needs time to heal. We call this the "postpartum" period. It usually lasts about six weeks. It's important to follow your care plan during this time so you can make a full recovery.