Labor usually starts 2 weeks before or after the estimated date of delivery. No one knows exactly what sets off the onset of labor.
To get ready for delivery, you may be moved into a birthing room or delivery room. Or you may stay in the same room for both labor and delivery.
Cesarean section or C-section is the surgical delivery of a baby through a cut (incision) made in the mother's abdomen and uterus.
An episiotomy is an incision through the area between your vaginal opening and your anus. This area is called the perineum. This procedure is done to make your vaginal opening larger for childbirth.
Fetal heart rate monitoring measures the heart rate and rhythm of your baby (fetus). This lets your healthcare provider see how your baby is doing.
Cord blood banking is a choice for parents who want to preserve the blood of the umbilical cord and placenta of their baby as "insurance" to help with possible future medical needs of their child.