Much of the pain women experience during labor is focused in the uterus resulting from the intense contractions that help move the baby down into the birth canal. For some …
When Does Labor Start After Losing Your Mucus Plug?
When you are pregnant, your body will produce a thick mucus (plug) which blocks the cervix. This plug protects the uterine environment form infection and repels bacteria from the outside. …
Cervical Dilation Chart – What to Expect During Each of the Stages of Labor
Your body moves through three stages when it’s time to give birth. The first stage focuses on cervical dilation – when the cervix is opening and thins in preparation for …
The Meaning of Cervical Dilation, Effacement and Signs You Are Dilating
Wondering what it means for your cervix to dilate or efface? Or maybe about the signs your cervix is dilating? If so, you are not alone. Doctors and other birth …
What is Fetal Station?
Do You Know the Fetal Stations and What They Mean? Fetal station is something your doctor may check as your delivery date nears or when you are checked when you …
When Do I Feed Baby? – Recognizing Hunger Cues
How Do I Know If My Baby is Hungry? Babies should be fed when they indicate hunger. Crying is a late indicator of hunger. Breastfeeding can be much easier for …
Guide to Breastfeeding for Dads
Dads don’t always realize how important their role is when it comes to breastfeeding and newborn care. Feeling left out is how they may feel since mom is the only …
Overview of a Cervical Lip in Labor
As the cervix gets near full dilation, sometimes you can have a bit of cervix on one side that is still present and not on the other side. This is …
Eating and Drinking During Labor
Why Can’t You Eat While in Labor? Eating during labor is still a debate among healthcare providers, hospitals and birthing centers. It is still up for debate because of the …
Using Castor Oil to Induce Labor
Castor Oil for Labor Induction I often get asked about using castor oil for inducing labor. The theory of labor induction with castor oil is that it acts as a …