A woman came into my exam room one afternoon, about 33 weeks into her pregnancy and asked to be induced because she was tired of being pregnant. I have had requests from moms wanting to deliver on specific dates (9/9/09, 10/10/0) and requests from grandmothers who are waiting (not very patiently) for the birth of their grandchild. In fact, requests for “social” inductions have … [Read more...] about Should you induce labor?
Would you give birth under water?
When you’re pregnant, choosing between “baby chick” or “sun porch” yellow paint for the nursery can seem like a life-altering decision. So when it comes to the big choices, such as deciding on your birth plan, considering an unconventional method might seem like more than you can handle. But “Many modern birthing choices take the power away from the woman and give it to the … [Read more...] about Would you give birth under water?
Doc, midwife, or doula?
You know which friends and family will be at the birth—but have you considered which experts you want there? The journey of labor and delivery isn’t a solo trip. Besides your family and partner, a whole team of supporters can guide you through. We checked in with Marisa Cohen, author of Deliver This: Make the Childbirth Choice That’s Right For You, to help you decide the right … [Read more...] about Doc, midwife, or doula?
4 real dads talk childbirth
Everyone knows that mother and baby are the stars of the childbirth show. But dad plays an essential supporting role. He often has the best vantage point to watch the whole wild story unfold. Four real dads weigh in on what it's like from his perspective. Labor “As the dad, you’re such an add-on to the whole process—you feel that way throughout the pregnancy, and then labor … [Read more...] about 4 real dads talk childbirth
Special report: Labor induction – what you need to know
Are you anxiously awaiting the spontaneous announcement from both your body and your baby that it’s time to deliver? Or would you rather put the big day on the calendar and have control over your baby’s birth date? Today, you have a choice. According to recent statistics published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 21 percent of all deliveries in … [Read more...] about Special report: Labor induction – what you need to know