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Types of Birth

We believe you should have the birthing experience you want. Mothers today are offered a variety of birth types to choose from. Some of the most common are:

Vaginal Delivery

When you arrive, you'll be assessed to be sure you are in active labor. If so, you and your partner will be escorted to one of our childbirth suites where you will labor and deliver your baby. You can play your music, dim the lights, shower — enjoy your experience. Our labor nurses will be there for you, to coach and provide as much, or as little, support as you desire.

Most women decide in advance whether to have an epidural, or to experience labor naturally without pain medication. Some women elect to see how labor is going before making their decision. Whichever you decide, our staff is here to help you achieve your birth preference.

If you choose to have an epidural, we will administer it when you're ready. Our anesthesiologists and anesthetists are on-site and available, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you chose to deliver without pain medication, we will support your decision. We do this because you and your baby are the center of our world.

Scheduled Cesarean

If you are scheduled for a Cesarean delivery (C-section), you will first be admitted to a birth suite to prepare you for surgery. Your labor and delivery nurse will examine and assess you and your baby.

Also, your doctor will visit you to discuss your anesthesia options. C-sections are usually done with an epidural or spinal allowing you to remain alert and participate in the birth of your child.  If you’re having an epidural, you will be moved to the operating suite about 30 minutes before your delivery time. Even if you have a C-section, we will make every attempt to promote bonding between you and your infant.

To reduce the chances of infection, only your partner or coach will be allowed in the C-section room.  They may take photos once the baby is born.

Emergency C-Section

Sometimes, circumstances of labor and delivery change, and cesarean birth becomes necessary for the health and safety of mom and/or baby. Your physician and health care team will explain the indication for cesarean and help prepare you for the procedure. We are committed to cesarean birth being a family-friendly experience, as you celebrate welcoming your baby into the world.

If you already have an epidural for labor, it can be dosed more heavily to keep you comfortable throughout your cesarean birth. If you do not have anesthesia in labor, a spinal anesthetic can be placed in the cesarean birth suite. In the event of an emergency, the decision may be made to use general anesthesia (put you to sleep). Rest assured that emergencies, while occurring in only 1% of births, are handled with skill and speed.

Find a doctor or make an appointment: 800.392.0936
General Information: 573.468.4186 | 866.468.4186
BJC HealthCare