Birth Center

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Giving Birth

Whether you go into labor on your own, have been scheduled for a cesarean birth or need to be induced, the birthing process is one of anticipation, excitement and anxiety.

As you prepare to give birth, it's important that you educate yourself about what to expect and what you should do to get ready.

Are you in labor?

Labor may start in a variety of ways - a low backache, contractions, a "knowing" that things are different. Generally the combination of stronger contractions, your water breaking and the emotional shift to a more serious focus are all good indicators that it is time to go to the hospital. If you think you may be in labor, but aren't sure, call MeritCare Family Birth Center. A nurse will help you decide if it's time to come to the hospital.

Here are some additional resources to help get you started.

Baby's Birth

Preparing for multiple births

Giving Birth

Preterm labor
Dealing with pain during childbirth
Managing pain during labor and birth
Episiotomy
Birthing positions
Breech position and breech birth
Vaginal or cesarean birth
Vaginal birth after cesarean birth
The first day of life
What is the Apgar score?

After the Baby is Born

Looking at your newborn: What's normal?
Postpartum depression and caring for your baby
Recovering from birth

Complications

A primer on preemies
Birth defects
When your baby has a birth defect
What is Rh incompatibility?
Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn (TTN)
MeritCare's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

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For over two decades, MeritCare has been a leader in clinical research. Visit our online guide to learn more about our current research and clinical trials.

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Every day, MeritCare is committed to quality health care and continuous improvements. Learn more in our online quality guide.