8
q
lifeand health
PREGNANCY
EXCITED.
Anxious. Happy.
You’ve probably experienced all of
these feelings and more during your
pregnancy. Maybe you’ve alternated
among a few of them in the last
10 minutes alone—that’s normal.
Your months of waiting to meet
your baby are nearly over. Whether
you’re a rst-time mom or an ex-
perienced parent,
you know there
are challenges
ahead.
We’re here to
help you meet
them throughout
this special time—from birth to baby
and beyond.
Preparing for the big day
One way to ease anxiety about
childbirth is to learn more about
it. Every birth is unique, of course,
but childbirth education classes can
teach you the basics of labor and
delivery as well as introduce you to
other parents-to-be.
We also want you to know that
your comfort—and con dence in
our care—is important to us, so we
invite expectant parents to tour our
Birthing Suites.
During your tour, feel free to ask
the sta any questions you have
about what you can expect during
labor, delivery and a erward. We’re
here to help in any way we can.
Before ‘labor day’ arrives
Ask your health-
care provider how
you’ll know when
it’s time to go to
the hospital.
Signs of labor
can vary, but the
American Medical Association lists
For a physician referral or
to schedule a tour of The
Birthing Suites, please call
860.364.4124
.
Having a baby is wonderful.
Giving birth to a baby is painful.
You’ll want to talk to your healthcare
provider before your due date about the
di erent types of pain relief available.
Keep in mind that some decisions about
pain relief may be made as your labor
progresses. Some of the more common
methods to control pain include:
w
Relaxation and breathing exercises.
w
Epidural or spinal blocks. Given in the
lower back, these injections numb the
lower body.
w
Pain-relieving medications given
intravenously (through an IV) or with an
injection.
Your provider can go over the risks
and bene ts of each option and help
you decide which is best for you.
Sources: American Society of Anesthesiologists; March of Dimes
Pain relief options during labor
Awaiting a new arrival?
the following signs that it has begun:
w
Strong, regular contractions.
w
Back pain.
w
An increase in vaginal discharge.
w
A trickling or gush of uid (your
water breaking).
Ready to welcome your baby
When you arrive at the hospital,
our sta will try to make you as com-
fortable as possible and assist you and
your family in any way we can.
Having a baby is one of life’s most
rewarding experiences.
We’re honored to share it with
you, and we’re ready to help you wel-
come your baby into the world.
1...,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11 13,14,15,16