News Moms Need

Nope.  Sometimes genetics plays a part (for example, you and your mom both have a uniquely shaped uterus, a liver disease, diabetes or high blood pressure), but usually your mom’s birthing history will not impact yours. 

C-section, or cesarean delivery, can be a lifesaving operation when either you or your baby face certain problems before or during labor and delivery. Read more about reasons for cesarean section and watch our videos at this link.   Many women who deliver surgically never planned to do so, but an emergency made it necessary.  Some health care experts, however, believe that other, non-emergent c-sections are not medically necessary. A cesarean section is major surgery and should be done only when the health of the mother or baby is at risk.  Even if you had your first baby via cesarean delivery, you may or may not need to deliver a second baby that way. It all depends on the reasons for performing the first cesarean and how the incisions were placed in your body.  It’s important to discuss this with your health care provider before your next birth experience.

Here’s the story with breathing techniques. Back in the day, complex breathing patterns were taught to correlate with the various stages of labor. Several methods of childbirth preparation emphasized breathing as the primary way to relieve pain during labor. However, unless diligently practiced with a well-trained support person, these highly structured techniques have the potential to produce hyperventilation. 

Breathing is a tool to provide adequate oxygenation for mom and baby and to enhance relaxation. For best results, techniques should be simple, easy to follow, paced at the mother’s own rate and may include a pattern if she desires. Her respiratory rate should never be more than double and she should never feel air hunger at the end of a contraction.

So, whether you’re rehearsing, “IN…out-out-out…IN”, or “pant-pant-BLOW” get some professional guidance so you don’t get dizzy!

OK, it’s time to choose a health care provider for your prenatal care. How do you know who will be right for you? You can choose either a doctor (physician) or midwife to take care of you during your pregnancy and to deliver your baby. Here’s a Who’s Who:

• An obstetrician (OB) is a doctor who specializes in the care of women during pregnancy, childbirth and recuperation from delivery. About 8 in 10 pregnant women choose obstetricians.
• A family practice doctor is a doctor with training in all aspects of health care for every member of the family. A family practice doctor can be your health care provider before, during and after your pregnancy, and your baby’s doctor, too.
• A certified nurse-midwife is a registered nurse with advanced, specialized training and experience in taking care of pregnant women and delivering babies. Certified nurse-midwives are licensed to provide care before, during and after delivery.
• A maternal-fetal medicine specialist is a doctor with special training in the care of women who have high-risk pregnancies. If you have risk factors that could complicate your pregnancy, your prenatal care provider may refer you to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist.
Here’s a link to things you’ll want to think about or ask while you’re making your decision.