Frederick Westreich, MD Obstetrics/Gynecology Meadowview Obstetrics and Gynecology Columbia St. Mary’s Glendale — Brown Deer Rd.

May 07, 2007

Knowledge and flexibility are the keys to finding the right labor support for you.

When my patients, their partners and I discuss labor support options, I try to give them the big picture so they will know the many alternatives that are available. Then I tell them to keep an open mind because no one can anticipate what their labor will be like.

Women today have so many options to help them through labor — Lamaze therapy, hydrotherapy, doulas, medications, epidurals, hypnosis, even acupuncture. One unique option Columbia Center offers is doula support during labor; it is the only hospital in Wisconsin with doulas on staff. Their doulas have been a trusted, calming presence in the birth room. Doulas are specifically trained to be a calming influence, to support the expectant mother emotionally and to provide information.

However, rather than go into the details of each specific option, I want to focus on attitude and planning. For example, I never would have had acupuncture on my list, but I saw a woman have a beautiful labor with it. Picture the birth you want, as you want it to unfold, but leave the door open in case your labor moves in a different direction than you had planned.

Labor puts demands and expectations on a woman that she cannot anticipate, even if she has given birth before. Every pregnancy is different. For example, there’s the woman who has decided she wants an epidural but when she comes in, she doesn’t feel it is necessary. Or another woman plans to refuse any medical intervention, but has a cesarean for the safety of the baby. Recognize that your plans may change as your labor unfolds.

Planning for labor support
Even though your plans may change, making plans is still important. I recommend beginning the discussion with your doctor somewhere around the 24th to 26th week of pregnancy and then consider your options more specifically in the 32nd and 33rd weeks. Discuss your thoughts on labor support with your doctor and your partner.

If you would like a less common approach to labor support and birth, like acupuncture, then you’ll want to have that conversation as part of your process of finding the right doctor for you. Many doctors offer get-acquainted visits that would give you an opportunity to discuss it.

Most doctors keep their personal views out of your labor support decisions. As caregivers, their role is to make sure you are physically safe, but the mom has control of everything else. However, you’ll want to find a caregiver who would be comfortable with your labor support choice.

Labor is always a work in progress. Keep the channels of communication open with your caregivers and together you’ll find your way.