At SSM Maternity Care, we’ll work with you and your physician to accommodate your wishes as you welcome your newest member of the family. We understand that this is a personal decision and prior to delivery we can provide you with information that will guide you to the childbirth experience you desire. Decisions you will be asked to make include whether you want anesthesia and in what form you would like that medication delivered. We will follow your wishes, unless it becomes medically necessary to deviate. The various types of childbirth options include:
Natural (unmedicated)
Some mothers choose to have their baby without use of pain medication. If this is your chosen method of childbirth, we have some options that will help make your delivery as smooth and comfortable as possible. Breathing exercises as well as items like squat bars and a birth ball might make the experience more comfortable for you. Our nurses will also help you find a position that is comfortable for you.
Anesthesia
We have anesthesiologists available to help you with your birth 24 hours per day. Before delivery, you will have an opportunity to make some important decisions about your delivery. One decision is whether you would like to have an epidural, a common procedure where anesthesia is inserted into the spine. Pain medications are available to you throughout delivery, and you can talk with your physician about the best method for your child’s birth.
Cesarean section
Our physicians are prepared for Cesarean (C-section) births. In Cesarean births, babies are delivered through a surgical incision in the mother’s abdominal wall. Cesareans are performed only when vaginal delivery is not possible or when there is a concern for the well-being of the mom or baby. Some reasons that a baby might need to be born using a C-section include:
- Fetal distress, when the baby monitor shows that the baby is not tolerating labor as well as expected
- Abnormal presentation such as a breech birth
Vaginal Delivery After Cesarean section (VBAC)
For some women, having a Cesarean section during a first birth means that subsequent births will have to be by Cesarean as well. However, in some cases our physicians can provide vaginal delivery after C-section (VBAC) if it is safe for the mother and baby. Generally, this option is available only to women who have had one prior Cesarean section. Speak with your physician to learn more about your options.
Doulas
A doula is a supportive companion who is trained to provide support for expectant and new mothers. Their goal is to provide a safe and satisfying childbirth experience. SSM Maternity Care does not employ doulas; however, expectant mothers may choose to hire a birth doula to provide support before and during childbirth.