The birth and delivery plan for every woman can be just as unique as she is. Dr. Laure Lauriston of Mesdames in Yonkers, New York, is a highly skilled and experienced OB/GYN who can help you choose the labor and delivery plan that suits you the best. Whether you need a c-section, a VBAC, or a first vaginal delivery, Dr. Lauriston is here for support and help.
In most cases, you'll be allowed to have at least one support person with you during the birth if you wish. Your support person can be there for encouragement and even for physical support as you push during a vaginal delivery. The guidelines for c-section births usually allow for a support person in the operating room, as well. Dr. Lauriston will discuss your options with you well ahead of the birth.
In a vaginal birth or in a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean), you'll start to push after your cervix is fully dilated (10 cm.) You'll often feel the instinctive urge to push when you become fully dilated, but Dr. Lauriston and your nurses will also be right there to guide you when it's time to push.
An epidural is the most popular kind of pain relief during labor. It can be administered once dilation begins, and is typically given at around 4-5 cm dilation.
The insertion area in your lower back is first numbed with anesthetic.
Then an ultra thin tube (catheter) is inserted and the epidural medication is delivered.
The medication goes into the spinal cord area and will provide numbing for the lower part of the body.
This is a highly individual question that must be addressed with Dr. Lauriston. Many women who have had one or more c-sections can be candidates for VBAC, but each case is unique. It's important to be flexible with your birth plan, especially in the case of attempting a VBAC.
After your baby is born, you'll typically stay in the hospital for a day or two. Most vaginal births require just a short hospital stay. C-section births may require a longer stay of three to four nights. During your time in the hospital, you'll have plenty of time to be one-on-one with your new baby. Take advantage of the extra support from the nurses in the hospital and rest while you can. The hospital stay will pass more quickly than you can imagine.