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Labor and Birth

Labor starts with a contraction, and ends with birth. Your trip into labor and delivery will end with birth (unless you get sent home (which is a fine thing too if you are having irregular contractions and aren’t dilating).

Of course, packing that hospital bag is important too:

The definition of active labor is that your cervix is dilating (usually due to uterine contractions). However, there are a lot of signs of labor that signal that you are going to give birth. Things like losing your mucus plug, or when your amniotic fluid starts to come out

These posts talk about the stages of labor:

  • Latent labor
  • Active labor (those two make up the first stage of labor)
  • Pushing
  • Delivery of baby and placenta

Of course, childbirth never really goes according to one plan and many women think they can PLAN their labor. But labor and birth are difficult to plan. You CAN however make wishes or ideas of what you would like in a birth plan. Sadly, your uterus isn’t always on board with that.

Pain relief is a big part of learning about labor. Before you are fully dilated, you may have options like IV pain medication, an epidural, possibly nitrous oxide or natural pain management.

Yes, vaginal delivery is what a lot of people plan on, but sometimes a cesarean section is necessary. Sometimes your pelvis won’t let the baby fit through, or there is something else preventing the baby coming through your vagina.

And, there might be a reason to induce labor, and these posts below talk a LOT about induction. it’s important to know about that too as labor can be unpredictable.

I hope these posts help make you feel more at ease for your labor:

pregnant woman in pain at the hospital

Why Labor Pain Can Feel So Different For Each Person

May 20, 2025 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Many of us feel like a certain action has a certain amount of pain associated with it. You break …

Why Labor Pain Can Feel So Different For Each PersonRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pain Management

happy blob

Avoid Tearing at Delivery: 3 things you can do.

May 6, 2025 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Tearing at delivery isn't anything anyone wants to think about. I get it. However, I wish I had …

Avoid Tearing at Delivery: 3 things you can do.Read More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman breathing through a contraction at home

5 Simple Tips for a “Natural” Labor & Delivery

April 22, 2025 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Are you hoping to have a "natural" delivery at the hospital. Today we're going to talk about what …

5 Simple Tips for a “Natural” Labor & DeliveryRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Prenatal Care, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman in pain a the hospital

4 Things to Know About Birth Pains

March 24, 2025 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Pain can be really scary -- but birth pain is very different. Today, I'm going to tell you 4 things …

4 Things to Know About Birth PainsRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman leaning on her bed

Mistakes You’re Making That Makes Labor Longer

March 3, 2025 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Today I want to talk about a few things that you're doing that makes labor longer than it has to be. …

Mistakes You’re Making That Makes Labor LongerRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman, doctor feeling belly.

Is an Induction More Painful than “Regular Labor”

February 24, 2025 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

If you're considering an induction, you may wonder if it's more painful than "regular" labor …

Is an Induction More Painful than “Regular Labor”Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman and man in a birth class

Do You Need a Birth Class if You Plan to Get an Epidural

February 13, 2025 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

If you think that birth class is mainly to get you through the pain of labor -- do you really need …

Do You Need a Birth Class if You Plan to Get an EpiduralRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Pregnancy Classes

images of dates, breast pump, cuddling and primrose oil

4 Things You Can Do to Prepare Your Cervix for Labor

February 5, 2025 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Far too many people are going in for necessary (medically-indicated) inductions and finding that …

4 Things You Can Do to Prepare Your Cervix for LaborRead More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Prenatal Care, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!, Will it put you into labor?

pregnant couple in bed

Best Sex Position to Induce Labor?

February 4, 2025 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Let's talk about sex to induce labor -- and then go a bit deeper {see what I did there} to ask if a …

Best Sex Position to Induce Labor?Read More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!, Will it put you into labor?

breast pumps

Pumping To Induce Labor? Will it work?

January 23, 2025 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You're wanting to go into labor (or prep for a planned induction) will nipple stimulation, (or …

Pumping To Induce Labor? Will it work?Read More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!, Will it put you into labor?

many images of a pregnant woman in the hospital getting an epidural

Your Complete Guide to Epidurals in Labor: Everything You Need to Know

January 14, 2025 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You're mulling over getting an epidural and you'd like more info? Well, I'm thrilled that you're …

Your Complete Guide to Epidurals in Labor: Everything You Need to KnowRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Pain Management

urinary catheter

How is a Foley Catheter Used in Labor?

January 8, 2025 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

A Foley catheter is something that drains the urine out of your bladder into a bag. It can be used …

How is a Foley Catheter Used in Labor?Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman in a field of primrose

Does Evening Primrose Oil Induce Labor?

December 17, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Are you wondering if primrose oil will put you into labor? I get asked this question a lot (along …

Does Evening Primrose Oil Induce Labor?Read More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Will it put you into labor?Tag: Will this Induce Me?

pregnant woman using a peanut ball during labor

3 Tips to Using Movement During Labor WITH an Epidural

December 5, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

I am a huge fan of movement during birth. In fact, it's one of my 3 proven secrets. However, you may …

3 Tips to Using Movement During Labor WITH an EpiduralRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Pain Management

pregnant woman and her labor nurse

3 Proven Labor Secrets You Don’t Want to Labor Without!

November 26, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

As a labor and delivery nurse for 20 years I can't wait to share with you three things that can make …

3 Proven Labor Secrets You Don’t Want to Labor Without!Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

husband and wife in a hospital room with their newborn

YOUR Birth Priorities: How to make them clear

November 19, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

I know we love phrases like birth plans, birth preferences and birth wishes -- but the reality is …

YOUR Birth Priorities: How to make them clearRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Prenatal Care, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman in nature

How To Have A Natural Hospital Birth

November 14, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

I often hear people wanting to know how to have a "natural" birth at the hospital. It's important …

How To Have A Natural Hospital BirthRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Pregnancy Classes, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

provider holding a stethoscope

Hospital Policies You Can NOT Say No To.

November 13, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Today we're sharing what hospital policies you can not say no to (or ones that have some pretty …

Hospital Policies You Can NOT Say No To.Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant patient pushing //

How to Push-Out a Baby

November 11, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You know that labor involves contractions, but how exactly does that baby get from the inside of …

How to Push-Out a BabyRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman on phone

5 Things NOT to do Before Your Induction

November 4, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

I've talked ALL about what to do before an induction, today I want to talk about 5 things to NOT do …

5 Things NOT to do Before Your InductionRead More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman with her birth plan

What a Birth Plan Can ACTUALLY Do For Your Birth?

October 21, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Birth plans are all the rage. Sure, I prefer birth preferences or birth wishes, but the idea is the …

What a Birth Plan Can ACTUALLY Do For Your Birth?Read More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Prenatal Care, Second Trimester Resources, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

Pitocin to Induce Labor

September 20, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Pitocin or Oxytocin is a hormone your body produces to start things like labor, breastfeeding, and …

Pitocin to Induce LaborRead More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman in the hospital.

Inducing Labor at 39 Weeks: Pros and Cons

September 19, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You may have heard that inducing at 39 weeks is safe, or maybe you just want to be done being …

Inducing Labor at 39 Weeks: Pros and ConsRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant mama

What do People Wish They Had Known About Before Birth?

September 10, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Today we're going to deep dive into a study on what parents (especially first time parents) wish …

What do People Wish They Had Known About Before Birth?Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Pregnancy Classes

woman advocating for herself in labor.

Advocating For Yourself in Labor

August 29, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Recently, I asked in a group of pregnant women what some of their biggest fears were about labor, …

Advocating For Yourself in LaborRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman in the hospital //

5 Things You CAN Control in Labor (mostly)

August 27, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

My #1 truth about pregnancy and labor is to let go of control (because mother nature ultimately has …

5 Things You CAN Control in Labor (mostly)Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

loving pregnant couple.

Planning for Bump to Bassinet: Must-Have Resources for Expecting Parents

August 26, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Embarking on your journey to parenthood is an exciting and transformative time, filled with …

Planning for Bump to Bassinet: Must-Have Resources for Expecting ParentsRead More

Category: First Trimester Resources, Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Second Trimester Resources, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman sleeping //

Does Sleeping Stop Contractions?

August 22, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

If you go to sleep will it make your contractions stop? Today I'm going to share if sleeping is the …

Does Sleeping Stop Contractions?Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!, Will it put you into labor?

perineum with flowers

3 Things to Know About Perineal Massage

August 19, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Perineal massage gets a lot of talk on the internet, but is it actually useful? Today I'm going to …

3 Things to Know About Perineal MassageRead More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Prenatal Care, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!, Will it put you into labor?

pregnant woman flexing saying "you gotta do these things"

3 Things to Do At the End of Your Pregnancy for a Faster Labor

August 12, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Today I want to share three things you can do it try to make for a faster labor. That isn't to say …

3 Things to Do At the End of Your Pregnancy for a Faster LaborRead More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Prenatal Care, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

panic'd pregnant woman

The WORST Parts of Pregnancy

August 5, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Today I want to share the WORST parts of pregnancy. Sometimes you just want to feel like "yeah, this …

The WORST Parts of PregnancyRead More

Category: First Trimester Resources, Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Pains of Pregnancy, Second Trimester Resources, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman in pain

My #1 Tip for Hospital Birth

July 23, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

There's something that people don't talk about, because it seems a little scary -- but it truly is …

My #1 Tip for Hospital BirthRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

mucus dripping

What Does the Mucus Plug Look Like?

July 19, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Your mucus plug is a magical thing that keeps baby safe during the first couple of trimesters, but …

What Does the Mucus Plug Look Like?Read More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman bored by labor.

What To Do If Your Labor Goes Long?

July 11, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You're in labor, but it's just not progressing like you'd hoped (or possibly how the staff wished it …

What To Do If Your Labor Goes Long?Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant family in different phases, pregnancy, labor, birth and life with baby.

How a Birth Class Changes Pregnancy, Labor, Birth & Life With Baby

June 25, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Countless studies show that a birth class can change everything in your first steps into parenthood. …

How a Birth Class Changes Pregnancy, Labor, Birth & Life With BabyRead More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Pregnancy Classes, Second Trimester Resources, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

woman with partner screaming in labor

The MOST Traumatic things in Labor & Delivery

June 24, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You may think that the things that cause the most trauma are the kinds you see on TV or the news, …

The MOST Traumatic things in Labor & DeliveryRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

doppler fetal monitoring

Intermittent Auscultation: Who it’s for (and why it’s better)

June 20, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Have you ever heard that if you go looking for trouble, you'll find it? Studies show that is also …

Intermittent Auscultation: Who it’s for (and why it’s better)Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

saline lock

The Magical Saline Lock: How it can help

June 13, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

The saline lock (formerly known as a hep lock) is an under-utilized tool in labor that can allow you …

The Magical Saline Lock: How it can helpRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman being induced

5 Reasons to NOT Get Induced

June 7, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Choosing to have an induction is super complicated. Many women find a LOT of reasons to get …

5 Reasons to NOT Get InducedRead More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

Cook's balloon

What to Expect at A Foley Bulb Induction

June 5, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Has your doctor said they will place a foley bulb with your induction? What does that mean, what …

What to Expect at A Foley Bulb InductionRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

fetus

Should You Let Your Provider Break Your Water?

May 29, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

If your provider wants to break your water, should you let her? Today I'm going to talk about some …

Should You Let Your Provider Break Your Water?Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman and calendar

40 weeks + a day and No Sign of Labor?

May 22, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

They give you a due date meaning baby will be OUT around then, right? But what if you hit that due …

40 weeks + a day and No Sign of Labor?Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!, Will it put you into labor?

Epidurals During Pregnancy & Labor

May 20, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Getting an epidural during labor is a very common form of pain mangement in the US. Today I want to …

Epidurals During Pregnancy & LaborRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

What Happens if Your Induction Doesn’t Work?

May 16, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You're going in for an induction, but in the back of your head -- you're sort of wondering what …

What Happens if Your Induction Doesn’t Work?Read More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

image of a cesarean scar

C-Section Recovery: Tips You’ll Need

May 14, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Are planning on a cesarean section, or recently had one? Today I'm going to share a few …

C-Section Recovery: Tips You’ll NeedRead More

Category: Cesarean Section Delivery, Labor and Birth, Postpartum

pregnant woman with hands framing belly

7 Things You’re Doing Wrong in Your Third Trimester

May 10, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You've hit that third trimester, and you think you'll running it into the endzone for a big win this …

7 Things You’re Doing Wrong in Your Third TrimesterRead More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Prenatal Care, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

woman with a cesarean scar

Considering a VBAC: What to do

May 9, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You're considering a VBAC and I LOVE that. That means a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean, but not all …

Considering a VBAC: What to doRead More

Category: Cesarean Section Delivery, First Trimester Resources, Healthy Pregnancy, Hospital Routines, Prenatal Care, Second Trimester Resources, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman contracting looking at her watch

What to Do When You’re Having Contractions

May 3, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Having contractions can feel like -- "oh my gosh, is this it" but there are some questions you …

What to Do When You’re Having ContractionsRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

urinary catheter with the word "no" over the balloon.

Can You Refuse a Urinary Catheter During Labor

April 30, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

The urinary catheter is given for a variety of reasons during labor. Can you refuse it though? …

Can You Refuse a Urinary Catheter During LaborRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant couple

5 Mistakes People Make Preparing to go to the Hospital to Have Their Baby

April 22, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Parents come to the hospital with a lot of expectations and worries. What are some mistakes that …

5 Mistakes People Make Preparing to go to the Hospital to Have Their BabyRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman in cesarean section

What to Wear For a Cesarean Section

April 18, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Maybe you have a planned c-section or you're just wondering what you might need to change into if …

What to Wear For a Cesarean SectionRead More

Category: Cesarean Section Delivery, Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant couple in a field of tall grass he's touching her belly

How to Prepare for an Induction

April 15, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Do you have an induction scheduled? Today I want to share some things you can do to prepare for …

How to Prepare for an InductionRead More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnancy ultrasound

6 Things to Know About Your Fetal Growth Ultrasound

March 28, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You've had or you're having a growth ultrasound where they're telling you how large your baby is in …

6 Things to Know About Your Fetal Growth UltrasoundRead More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Induction, Prenatal Care, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

concentric circles

How Many CM Do You Need to Be to Get An Epidural?

March 26, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You're hoping to get an epidural while you're in labor -- but how far "along" do you need to be to …

How Many CM Do You Need to Be to Get An Epidural?Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

deflated balloon

How to Dilate Faster

March 22, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Are you looking to have your baby sooner rather than later? Are there things you can do to make …

How to Dilate FasterRead More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

happy pregnant couple

5 Mistakes Families Make Preparing for Delivery

March 6, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

There is a lot to keep in your head as you head into your delivery, but lots of families make pretty …

5 Mistakes Families Make Preparing for DeliveryRead More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Pregnancy Classes, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

baby right after being born

What You Need To Know About Precipitous Birth (fast births)

February 26, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Precipitous labor is considered birth within 3 hours of contractions becoming regular. It can be …

What You Need To Know About Precipitous Birth (fast births)Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

mom and newborn baby

The BIGGEST Myth About Labor (bar-none)

February 20, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Today I want to share the BIGGGEST that I have seen about labor, and this ends up catching people …

The BIGGEST Myth About Labor (bar-none)Read More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

woman talking to her doctor

Tips To Saying No To Your Provider

February 13, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Communicating with providers can be hard. A lot of us feel like we need to just do what our doctor …

Tips To Saying No To Your ProviderRead More

Category: First Trimester Resources, Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Prenatal Care, Second Trimester Resources, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

woman with an epidural infusing

Weird Side Effects from The Epidural That No One Talks About

February 7, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

The epidural seems to divide a lot of people. Some people love it, some hate it -- but what you …

Weird Side Effects from The Epidural That No One Talks AboutRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman hurting

Can You Push Yourself Into Labor?

January 30, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You're at the end zone of pregnancy and OVER it. You're wishing it was over and are wondering WHAT …

Can You Push Yourself Into Labor?Read More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!, Will it put you into labor?

pregnant woman sleeping

Can Labor Start While Sleeping?

January 29, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Maybe you're going to sleep and wondering if something will start tonight, or just idle curiosity -- …

Can Labor Start While Sleeping?Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

woman with an IV in.

Can I Refuse an IV During Labor?

January 25, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You're thinking you likely won't need an IV during labor and you hate needles. So, can you refuse …

Can I Refuse an IV During Labor?Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

mom during a c-section

How to Prepare for Your C-Section (Cesarean Section)

January 19, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

So, you're pregnant and either aware there's a decent-sized chance you could have a c-section, OR …

How to Prepare for Your C-Section (Cesarean Section)Read More

Category: Cesarean Section Delivery, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

provider doing a vaginal exam

What Cervix Dilation Should You Be at 36 Weeks of Pregnancy?

January 4, 2024 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

So you go in for your 36 week check-up and you agree to a cervical exam.  What should your …

What Cervix Dilation Should You Be at 36 Weeks of Pregnancy?Read More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Prenatal Care, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman on a labor ball

The Best Labor Advice You’ll Ever Get

December 15, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You might be thinking it's about a certain position to use, or a specific type of midwife to get -- …

The Best Labor Advice You’ll Ever GetRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pregnancy Classes, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant couple looking at a laptop

Why are Birth Classes So Expensive?

December 14, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Taking a birth class can seem so pricey for new parents who already feel like they have a lot to …

Why are Birth Classes So Expensive?Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pregnancy Classes, Second Trimester Resources, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

Ask your provider for an induction

How to Ask Your Doctor to Induce You

December 12, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Are you just DONE being pregnant and wondering how you can ask your provider to induce you? Let me, …

How to Ask Your Doctor to Induce YouRead More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman, hospital bed.

What to Do If You Can’t Decide if You Want an Epidural or Not?

December 11, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Not sure if you'll want an epidural or not? Honestly, you're not alone. The majority of patients …

What to Do If You Can’t Decide if You Want an Epidural or Not?Read More

Category: Pain Management, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

Pregnant couple giving birth with a nurse and a doctor

The 5 Worst Pieces of Pregnancy Advice I Have Heard

December 8, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Looking for some real pregnancy advice from someone who KNOWS what they're talking about? Today I'm …

The 5 Worst Pieces of Pregnancy Advice I Have HeardRead More

Category: First Trimester Resources, Healthy Pregnancy, Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Pregnancy Classes, Second Trimester Resources, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

Debunking Induction Myths with My Own Induction Story

December 6, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Hilary, circa 2009. I'm feeling huge, I'm pregnant with my third baby, after a bout of infertility …

Debunking Induction Myths with My Own Induction StoryRead More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Hospital Routines, Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

photo of 2 cm dilated

I’m 2 cm Dilated? How much longer?

November 30, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You might have been checked in the office at one of your appointments -- and been told your cervix …

I’m 2 cm Dilated? How much longer?Read More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Labor and Birth, Prenatal Care, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

human fetus with an arrow.

3 Ways To Get Baby to Flip Head Down

November 28, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Is your baby breech and you'd like them to NOT BE? You're in the right place. Today I'm going to …

3 Ways To Get Baby to Flip Head DownRead More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Hospital Routines, Prenatal Care, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

fetus in the amniotic sac and an amnihook.

Should You Get the Labor Epidural Before They Break Your Water?

November 16, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You're in labor, and you hear your provider is coming to break your water.  Is it better to get …

Should You Get the Labor Epidural Before They Break Your Water?Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman in a car

How to Time Going to the Hospital in Labor

November 15, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

A lot of people want some clear-cut guidelines about when they should go to the hospital when …

How to Time Going to the Hospital in LaborRead More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant family

Reason You’ll Want a Birth Class on Your Second+ Baby

November 10, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Ok, you're onto baby 2+ -- and you're thinking, "I don't need a prenatal class, I've done this" -- …

Reason You’ll Want a Birth Class on Your Second+ BabyRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pregnancy Classes, Second Trimester Resources, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

uterus, with an avocado over the cervix in a magnifying glass

What is Cervical Ripening?

November 2, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Cervical ripening is the process from which the cervix turns from hard like rubber into soft and …

What is Cervical Ripening?Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman up walking in the hospital with her nurse.

Is a “Walking Epidural” A Real Thing?

October 24, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Are you wondering if you can get a "walking epidural" -- the answer is that it DEPENDS. Some …

Is a “Walking Epidural” A Real Thing?Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

panicking pregnant woman going into labor

4 Signs You’re Almost In Labor

October 10, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

As a busy, soon-to-be mom, you’re likely keeping an eye out for the signs labor is coming …

4 Signs You’re Almost In LaborRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

Your Labor Induction with Cervidil (Dinoprostone): What to expect?

October 9, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Your labor induction could happen with Cervidil.  It’s a vaginal insert that includes hormones …

Your Labor Induction with Cervidil (Dinoprostone): What to expect?Read More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman having a vaginal exam

What is Stripping Membranes? (Membrane Sweep)

September 22, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You're tired of being pregnant and you've heard of a magical cure called a membrane sweep (or …

What is Stripping Membranes? (Membrane Sweep)Read More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!, Will it put you into labor?

husband helps wife in labor

6 Reasons You Need to Take a Birth Class

September 15, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Birth classes are one of the most important things you can do during your pregnancy, but many …

6 Reasons You Need to Take a Birth ClassRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pregnancy Classes, Second Trimester Resources, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

uterus with an open sign

Signs You Are Dilating: Symptoms of cervical dilation

September 14, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Dilation is a signs that your cervix is opening and labor may be close!  But, since most of us …

Signs You Are Dilating: Symptoms of cervical dilationRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

woman giving birth

Does Labor Still Hurt With an Epidural?

September 11, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

How much labor pain should you expect during labor when you have an epidural? Should you expect to …

Does Labor Still Hurt With an Epidural?Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

How Bad Does the Epidural Hurt? What to expect during placement.

August 28, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Women who plan on  vaginal birth may wonder how painful the placement and infusion of epidural …

How Bad Does the Epidural Hurt? What to expect during placement.Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

baby and mom after birth

7 Gross Things About Childbirth

August 16, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Childbirth seems pretty magical. You create a human and it magically appears on your chest... but …

7 Gross Things About ChildbirthRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

woman being induced in labor

Being Induced at 37 Weeks: What should you expect?

August 16, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

It sounds like you're considering an induction of labor around 37 weeks pregnant.  How will it be …

Being Induced at 37 Weeks: What should you expect?Read More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

IV During Labor – Do you NEED IV fluids in labor and delivery?

August 14, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

It is a standard practice in most US Hospitals to order an intravenous line (mostly referred to as …

IV During Labor – Do you NEED IV fluids in labor and delivery?Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman having diarrhea on the toilet

Diarrhea at 38 Weeks Pregnant:  Is it a sign of labor?

August 4, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Having diarrhea can be a sign of labor, it can also be a sign that you had something that didn't sit …

Diarrhea at 38 Weeks Pregnant:  Is it a sign of labor?Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman and provider

Can You Request to Induce Labor at 37 Weeks?

August 2, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You may be miserable, or your mom's in town or for a variety of reasons you may want to be induced 3 …

Can You Request to Induce Labor at 37 Weeks?Read More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Induction, Pains of Pregnancy, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

fetus/ cervix

What is an “Unfavorable Cervix”? What does it mean for your labor?

July 27, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You may hear that you have an "unfavorable cervix" and you have no idea what that means.... Let's …

What is an “Unfavorable Cervix”? What does it mean for your labor?Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman in a hospital bed

5 Signs Your Birth is Going to Be Hard

July 20, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Today I want to tell you five things to watch for your birth to be hard. These are things that can …

5 Signs Your Birth is Going to Be HardRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

white round pills

How is Cytotec (Misoprostol) Given for Labor Induction?

July 19, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Having an induction of labor can be confusing. Your friends may have had their medicine through the …

How is Cytotec (Misoprostol) Given for Labor Induction?Read More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

Cytotec Labor Induction: What to expect?

July 17, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

There are a few medication options when you are planning to start lab (called induction of labor). …

Cytotec Labor Induction: What to expect?Read More

Category: Induction, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman asleep

Can You Sleep Through Contractions – Especially Early Labor?

July 8, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Can you sleep through contractions?  It's a great question because sleeping is a great way to …

Can You Sleep Through Contractions – Especially Early Labor?Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman in a bra

Do You Wear a Bra During Labor?

June 14, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

Most people aren't sure if they should wear a bra during labor. While no choice has to be final, as …

Do You Wear a Bra During Labor?Read More

Category: Hospital Routines, Labor and Birth, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman at night

Do Most Women Go Into Labor at Night?

June 11, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You might be wondering if there is a time of day that you are more likely to start contractions than …

Do Most Women Go Into Labor at Night?Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

Best Time to Get an Epidural During Labor

June 10, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

When is the best time to request epidural anesthesia? Will getting it earlier or later prolong …

Best Time to Get an Epidural During LaborRead More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

pregnant woman

Symptoms of Lightening: Is 35 Weeks to Early?

June 1, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

People may ask you if your baby has "dropped" yet, or your provider may say that baby has dropped -- …

Symptoms of Lightening: Is 35 Weeks to Early?Read More

Category: Healthy Pregnancy, Pains of Pregnancy, Signs of Labor, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

epidural placement

Why Can’t You Get an Epidural After a Point During Childbirth?

May 31, 2023 //  by Hilary Erickson, BSN, RN

You may be wanting to get an epidural, but not sure at what point you CAN'T get during childbirth …

Why Can’t You Get an Epidural After a Point During Childbirth?Read More

Category: Labor and Birth, Pain Management, Third Trimester Resources: Finish Strong!

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