Giving Birth in a Hospital: What to Expect
For many expectant parents, a hospital birth feels like the safest and most reassuring choice. Hospitals provide access to medical support, equipment, and a team of professionals to help navigate the journey of childbirth. However, for those who are new to the experience, understanding what to expect can ease anxiety and empower you to have a positive, informed hospital birth. Here’s a guide on what to expect when giving birth in a hospital, so you can feel prepared and confident.
1. Admission and Check-In
When you arrive at the hospital, you’ll go through an admission process where hospital staff will confirm your identity, gather any necessary medical history, and check your birth plan if you have one. You’ll be asked a few questions, and depending on the stage of your labor, you may be directed to a triage area for initial assessment. This is also a great time to remind the staff of any specific preferences or needs you have.
2. Initial Assessment
Once checked in, a nurse or midwife will assess your labor progress. This may involve:
Checking your blood pressure, pulse, and temperature
Monitoring your baby’s heartbeat and your contractions using external monitors
A cervical exam to determine how far along you are in labor
This initial assessment helps the medical team determine whether you’re ready to be moved to a labor and delivery room or if more time in early labor is needed.
3. Moving to the Labor and Delivery Room
Once admitted, you’ll be taken to your labor and delivery room, where most of the birth process will happen. Here, you can arrange the space to make yourself as comfortable as possible. Bring personal items, such as a cozy blanket, essential oils, or a playlist, to make the environment more soothing. Many hospitals are supportive of these touches, as they help create a calming atmosphere.
4. Your Birth Team
Your hospital team usually includes a combination of nurses, a doctor or midwife, and sometimes a resident doctor or medical student. You may also have a doula, if you’ve chosen to hire one. Nurses are typically with you for most of your labor, while your doctor or midwife will be there for active labor and delivery. Feel free to ask questions and communicate openly about your birth plan and preferences.
5. Pain Management Options
Hospitals offer a range of pain management options, so you’ll have choices based on your preferences and how your labor progresses. Common options include:
Epidural: A form of anesthesia administered through a catheter in your lower back. It provides effective pain relief and is available at most hospitals.
Nitrous Oxide: Sometimes referred to as “laughing gas,” this option is inhaled through a mask and helps take the edge off contractions.
IV Medications: Some hospitals offer medications delivered through an IV that provide short-term relief without the effects of an epidural.
You can also use natural pain management techniques, such as breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, or movement. Communicate with your birth team about your preferences and be open to adapting as labor progresses.
6. Monitoring and Movement
Most hospitals use fetal monitoring to track your baby’s heart rate and your contractions. Continuous monitoring may limit movement, while intermittent monitoring offers more flexibility to walk around. Movement during labor can help with pain management and labor progression, so ask your healthcare provider about options for intermittent monitoring or wireless monitors if mobility is important to you.
7. Making Medical Decisions
Throughout labor, your healthcare team may suggest certain interventions, like breaking your water, administering Pitocin to stimulate contractions, or other procedures. If these are suggested, feel free to ask about the reasons, benefits, and risks involved. Having this information helps you make informed decisions that align with your birth plan and comfort level.
8. Pushing and Delivery
When it’s time to push, your team will guide you through the process. Some hospitals allow you to try different positions for pushing, such as squatting, side-lying, or using a birthing bar, while others may prefer traditional positions. Communicate with your team about what feels right, and follow their guidance to support the delivery.
9. Meeting Your Baby
After delivery, most hospitals offer immediate skin-to-skin contact, which helps regulate the baby’s temperature and breathing while also strengthening the parent-child bond. Hospitals typically support this “golden hour” with minimal interruptions, allowing you time to connect with your newborn.
10. Postpartum Recovery in the Hospital
After birth, you’ll be moved to a recovery room, where you’ll stay for one to two days for a vaginal delivery or three to four days for a C-section, depending on your health and preference. During this time, nurses will check your vital signs, assist with newborn care, and offer guidance on breastfeeding if needed.
11. Breastfeeding Support and Newborn Care
Most hospitals have lactation consultants on staff who can assist with breastfeeding and address any challenges you may encounter in the early days. You’ll also receive newborn care tips, including bathing, feeding, and swaddling. Take this opportunity to ask questions and familiarize yourself with newborn basics.
Giving birth in a hospital provides access to a range of medical support, pain management options, and postpartum care. Knowing what to expect and having a flexible plan can help you feel calm, confident, and in control. Hospitals are there to support you and your birth choices, so communicate your preferences and advocate for the birth experience you desire. By preparing ahead, you can create a hospital birth experience that’s safe, supportive, and memorable.