More than 10,000 babies are born every day in the United States. That’s a lot of births, but what’s even more impressive is that no two deliveries are exactly the same.
If you’re pregnant, the thought of giving birth might bring up feelings of anxiety, excitement, or a combination of both. Every woman’s experience in the delivery room is unique, and there are a lot of misconceptions about preparing for this life-changing event.
Here to help sort fact from fiction is our team of obstetricians and midwives at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta. We specialize in prenatal care, labor, and delivery, and we’re taking a closer look at some of the most common myths about delivery.
Obstetricians are doctors who specialize in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. If you’re pregnant, it’s important to get regular prenatal checkups. These appointments monitor both your health and your baby’s, but many women assume they have to choose an obstetrician to get quality prenatal care.
When it comes to choosing your pregnancy and delivery care provider, you have options. OB-GYN Associates of Marietta has a staff of certified nurse-midwives that work alongside our obstetrics team.
Our midwives provide comprehensive prenatal care and education before birth, and support in the delivery room too. Consider choosing a midwife if you want a more natural, intimate delivery experience.
It’s normal to be nervous about labor and delivery. Creating a birth plan is a common way to deal with that anxiety, but many moms-to-be develop very detailed birth plans, only to learn that delivery rarely goes exactly to plan.
It’s true that you should talk with your partner and your care providers about what to expect as your due date approaches. Consider all of the possible options, whether you want a natural vaginal birth or a scheduled C-section, but understand that complications can arise.
You might go into labor before your due date, or you might need an emergency C-section. Our team works with you during labor and delivery to ensure you and your baby stay as safe and as healthy as possible.
Many women have preconceived expectations about labor and delivery. Maybe your mom and sisters all had C-sections, so that’s what you’re expecting. Or maybe you’re hoping for a natural, drug-free delivery experience.
It’s OK to have expectations, but there’s not a one-size-fits-all solution for giving birth. Your medical history and your body are unique, and your needs might dictate one method of delivery over another.
Our team works with you to determine if vaginal delivery is right for you, and we help you understand when a C-section might be recommended. In the end, the best delivery method for you is the one that minimizes risks and gives your baby their best possible start to life.
Nothing can compare to the moment you first see and hear your baby. It’s a common misconception that labor and delivery end when your baby is put into your arms.
The placenta is an organ that forms in your uterus when you’re pregnant. It gives your baby oxygen and nutrients, but once they’re born, it’s no longer needed.
You’ll continue experiencing contractions after your baby is born, until you deliver the placenta. This takes anywhere from 5-30 minutes, but the contractions are mild and you may only need to push one more time.
There’s a lot to learn about navigating labor and delivery, but you don’t have to do it alone. Find comprehensive prenatal care at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta. Contact us online or call one of our offices in Marietta and Woodstock, Georgia, to schedule an appointment.
