The expectation and reality of the birth of my daughter could not have been more different. While I'd read over and over again that having a birth plan was mostly silly, given how rarely things go as ...

When labor begins, the uterus must coordinate rhythmic, well-timed contractions to deliver the baby safely. While hormones such as progesterone and oxytocin are key contributors to that process, ...

A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to a mother before, during, and shortly after childbirth. Unlike midwives or obstetricians, ...

Labor contractions can feel like intense cramps or pressure. Braxton-Hicks contractions do not follow a pattern and may stop with activity. Early labor contractions become more regular and stronger ...

Pain management during childbirth has evolved dramatically over the centuries, from herbal remedies to modern epidurals. But what if one of the most effective natural pain relievers has been growing ...

As you're preparing for the arrival of your future sidekick, you're probably anticipating labor and delivery with a mixture of excitement and anxiety. It's a good time to become familiar with vaginal ...

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts. Many women and their partners take childbirth classes in preparation for ...

A lack of birthing options in North St. Louis County, negative experiences during previous labor and deliveries, as well as the desire to bring new life into the world the natural way is making some ...

LAFAYETTE, La. – Elizabeth Capdepon had her heart set on natural childbirth when she delivered her baby boy, William, in April. She knew he would be a big baby. If she realized he would come into this ...

Childbirth practices are shifting as more women actively participate in decisions about how they want to give birth (1 Trusted Source Midwife-led continuity models versus other models of care for ...