Labor

Atmosphere

• Dim lighting
• Own clothes (if hospital allows)
• Freedom to move, walk, birth ball, shower / tub

Monitoring & interventions

• Limit cervical checks when possible
• Prefer a natural start — avoid inducing labor if possible
• Delay artificial rupture of membranes (water break) if possible
• Pitocin as a last resort

Pain management

• Plan for epidural
• Non-med options of interest:
  • Breathing / coaching
  • Massage
  • TENS (if available)