When labor begins, St. John’s Health is committed to making your
birth proceed smoothly and without complication. If you have any special
desires for your labor experience, let our staff know and we will do everything
in our power to accommodate you.
What to Expect During Labor
If you believe you are in labor, call your physician or certified nurse
midwife immediately. They can assess your situation and determine whether
or not labor has begun. Depending on your signs and symptoms, you may
be instructed to come to the Birth Center at St. John’s Health.
One of our trained nurses will assess you in the triage room, gather your
basic health information, and contact your obstetrician or certified nurse midwife.
If you are in labor, you will immediately be transferred to a private delivery
room. If you are not in true labor, you will be sent home with instructions
as to when to return.
Electronic fetal monitoring will be performed to track your labor progress.
Anesthesiologists are always on call for pain relief. If you would like an
unmedicated delivery, let the medical staff know and they will do all in their power to make
your labor as comfortable as possible.
If desired, mirrors and lights are available to help mothers see the birth
of their babies.
Mothers and babies stay together after the birth, provided there were no
complications.
After an uncomplicated vaginal delivery, most mother and babies stay in
the health system for 24-48 hours.
What to Expect During Cesarean Sections
Families should arrive at St. John’s two hours before their scheduled
C-Section.
Upon arrival at the Labor and Delivery Unit, you will meet your nurse who
will prepare you for your surgery.
You will have the opportunity to talk with your physician and anesthesia
provider before entering the operating room. They will ensure that all
of your questions are answered.
We encourage you to have a partner present during your C-Section. Additional
family members may wait in your post-partum room.
A pediatrician is always present during C-sections and will be available
to assess your baby the moment that he or she is born.
After an uncomplicated C-section, mother mothers and babies stay in the
health system for 48-72 hours.
Expecting the Unexpected
Most deliveries are free from complications. However, if the need arises,
our team is trained to handle emergencies with expert care and compassion.
December 10 Prenatal Bootcamp
