Preparing for Childbirth: What You Can Do to Ready Yourself

Last updated 12 months ago

A new child’s birth is an exciting experience, regarded by most women as one of the most memorable that life has to offer. If you are expecting a new baby, read on to learn more about what you can do to prepare before you arrive at the hospital on your special day.

Know your birthing choices
Two important decisions that every expecting mother needs to make are her choices of health provider and birthing center. Obstetricians, or physicians who receive special medical training in the management of pregnancy, labor and birth, will often prefer to deliver a new baby in the hospital. If you are interested in having a home birth, you may prefer the assistance of a registered nurse-midwife.
Learn the basics
Labor and delivery can incite both excitement and anxiety in first-time moms. Arming yourself with knowledge about the delivery process can help you to feel more confident as you approach the special day. Contact your obstetrician or primary care physician if you have any questions about the process.
Take a birthing class
Many expecting parents find birthing classes to be extremely helpful in calming their worries and providing answers to their many questions. Classes are typically taken during the last trimester of a woman’s pregnancy and can teach you what to expect during the birthing process. You can also learn about your pain relief options during labor and how to make the entire experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

At Menorah Medical Center, our prenatal and obstetrics care experts offer the full range of support services for expectant mothers and their children. If you are interested in registering for one of our prenatal education classes, contact Menorah’s Consult-A-Nurse line at (913) 498-6000. Our nurses can also help you to find a compassionate and experienced obstetrician near you.