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Home › Articles › Labor Preparation › The Grand Tour

The Grand Tour

A Quick Trip Through the Labor and Delivery Room

By Jacqueline Rupp

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Sometimes an episiotomy might be suggested to aid in birth. This is a procedure in which an incision is made in the perineum tissue, which separates the vagina from the anus. In the past it was believed to have aided the delivery process and prevent further damage to the vagina. However, more and more women are requesting that episiotomies not be performed unless there is a medical emergency, as new evidence has found that routine episiotomies have been linked to pelvic floor dysfunction for years after birth.

"Episiotomies used to be seen as a procedure which could actually protect the pelvic floor, but we now know that based on medical evidence it actually can do the exact opposite," says Stark. That's why it's important to ask questions. Find out what the potential for harm is. There always are some drawbacks. Learn what alternatives are available. Doing nothing may be the easiest answer for the patient. Always ask for time alone to discuss your options with your labor support team (i.e., your doula and/or partner).

"R" Is for Recovery
Once the baby is born the breathing passages are suctioned. "The baby is then placed on the mother's chest and the father, or whoever the mother has requested, will cut the umbilical cord," explains Stark. You can request that this time period when Baby is initially with you after birth last for as long as possible.


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