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Prepare for labor and birth with guidance on vaginal births, C-sections, home births, and birth center births. Explore birth plans, labor tips, pain management options, birth stories, and practical resources to help you understand your choices and prepare for delivery.

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Pregnant woman writing a birth plan in a notebook while sitting cross-legged on the floor

How to Create a Birth Plan Plus Free Template and Checklist

Learn how to create a birth plan with this simple guide, plus a free template and checklist to help you feel prepared and confident.

A person sits cross-legged on green grass, wearing a white tank top and gray pants. They place both hands on their pregnant belly, possibly focusing on how to induce labor naturally. Rocks and plants are visible in the background.

13 Safe and Natural Ways To Induce Labor

Medical professionals in surgical attire are delivering a newborn baby via emergency c-section in an operating room. One holds the infant while the other clamps the umbilical cord. The newborn is crying and covered in vernix, surrounded by medical equipment.

Emergency C-Sections: Causes, Risks, and Recovery

A newborn baby wrapped in a white towel lies on a bed with light blue sheets. The baby's eyes are closed, its tiny hands near its face. With dark hair and a calm expression, this serene moment reminds us of the things not to do during labor—such as forgetting to prepare for post-birth tranquility.

7 Things Not to Do During Labor

A pregnant woman sits comfortably on a gray couch, holding a smartphone in her right hand and resting her left hand on her belly, perhaps timing labor contractions. She is wearing a pink shirt and a denim jacket with a floral blanket draped over the couch.

5 Best Labor Contraction Timer Apps for Expecting Moms

A person sits cross-legged on green grass, wearing a white tank top and gray pants. They place both hands on their pregnant belly, possibly focusing on how to induce labor naturally. Rocks and plants are visible in the background.

13 Safe and Natural Ways To Induce Labor

Medical professionals in surgical attire are delivering a newborn baby via emergency c-section in an operating room. One holds the infant while the other clamps the umbilical cord. The newborn is crying and covered in vernix, surrounded by medical equipment.

Emergency C-Sections: Causes, Risks, and Recovery

A newborn baby wrapped in a white towel lies on a bed with light blue sheets. The baby's eyes are closed, its tiny hands near its face. With dark hair and a calm expression, this serene moment reminds us of the things not to do during labor—such as forgetting to prepare for post-birth tranquility.

7 Things Not to Do During Labor

A pregnant woman sits comfortably on a gray couch, holding a smartphone in her right hand and resting her left hand on her belly, perhaps timing labor contractions. She is wearing a pink shirt and a denim jacket with a floral blanket draped over the couch.

5 Best Labor Contraction Timer Apps for Expecting Moms

SOAR BIRTH COURSE

Know What to Do When Labor Starts

Step-by-step guidance for handling contractions, decisions, and support in the moment.

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What to buy

A pregnant woman sits on a black exercise ball, arms stretched overhead, as she prepares her body for labor and birth. She wears a white top and gray sweatpants. The room features a gray sofa, a plant, and soft lighting.

10 Products To Help Prepare for Labor and Birth

Guides

Pregnant woman packing hospital bag for labor and delivery

The Ultimate Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom, Baby, and Partner

Birth Tips

Close-up of a pregnant woman's belly. She is wearing a light blue delivery gown and cradling her belly with both hands. She stands near a sheer curtain, with soft natural light coming through. The setting appears calm and serene.

What To Wear During Labor and Delivery

Guides

A stack of pregnancy books and parenting guides on a dark wooden table. Titles include "Ina May's Guide to Childbirth," "Birthing from Within," "Pushed," "The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth," "Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn," and "Mindful Birthing.

Best Pregnancy & Birth Books: Top Picks for Expecting Moms

Pregnancy Guides

A man with a beard and glasses is leaning against a yellow headboard, reading baby books for your partner while sitting in bed. A French Bulldog, partially covered by a white duvet, is next to him, looking towards the camera. A window is visible in the background.

16 Pregnancy, Birth, and Baby Books Every Partner Should Read

Fatherhood

A pregnant woman in a magenta shirt is looking at a catalog labeled "ESSENTIAL SINGLES" on a table. Next to her, there is an aroma diffuser, a box of essential oils for labor, and other booklets. She rests one hand on her belly and holds the catalog with the other.

Top 10 Essential Oils for Labor and Delivery

Guides

A pregnant woman sits on a sofa, looking into the white quilted c-section hospital bag she has on her lap. There is a stuffed toy cat next to her and a bicycle in the background. She is wearing a grey t-shirt and green pants.

C-Section Hospital Bag Guide: What To Pack

C-section

A stethoscope rests on a yellow knitted fabric beside a brown paper-wrapped gift box tied with a yellow ribbon. The objects are arranged closely, suggesting a theme that might be related to gifts for labor delivery nurses or celebrating the dedication of medical professionals.

Thank-You Gifts for Labor and Delivery Nurses

Guides

A person in a blue and white striped dress holds their pregnant belly with one hand and a brown checkered handbag, packed with essential hospital bag items, with the other. The background features a walkway and green lawn with columns in view.

Labor Induction Hospital Bag Guide: 10 Must-Have Items

Guides

A collection of beauty and skincare products are displayed in front of a decorative bag with a lavender field design, reminiscent of the tranquility one might seek during a home birth. The setup includes various bottles, containers, and boxes. The background shows pillows with the words "MONSIEUR" and "MADAME.

Everything You Need for Your Home Birth

Guides

A pregnant woman sits, cradled by another person behind her. The person's hands hold a pair of baby shoes near the woman's belly. With her white shirt and light-colored pants, she radiates anticipation as she mentally prepares the birth center bag for the special day ahead.

Birth Center Bag Checklist: What To Pack for Labor, Baby, and Postpartum

Guides

Podcast Episodes

View more

A close-up of a woman's lower abdomen showing a healed horizontal C-section scar, likely from a surgical procedure such as a C-section, with hands resting on either side and wearing beige underwear.

What to Expect During a C-Section: Part 2

A woman lies in a hospital bed in the operating room holding her newborn baby on her chest. She and a person beside her, both wearing hairnets, are in a medical setting with monitors and equipment visible. The partner or anesthesiologist is wearing a mask and scrubs.

What to Expect During a C-Section: Part 1

A newborn baby is being pulled up and held immediately after birth. The baby has a wet head and is crying, with eyes closed. Gloved hands support the baby, with a medical bracelet visible on the adults wrist. The setting is likely a hospital or birthing center.

The Power of Pushing During Labor: How To Do It & What to Expect

A new mother in a hospital gown gently holds and kisses her newborn baby wrapped in a striped blanket. They are in a bright room with soft lighting.

How To Prepare For A Great Hospital Birth

A black-and-white image of a newborn baby resting on their mother's chest after a safe birth. The mother lies in bed, looking up with a calm expression while holding the baby close under a blanket. The baby appears to be crying or making a facial expression.

Preparing for a Safe Birth & Healthy Baby With Gina Mundy

A pregnant woman in a black tank top and leggings stands between two beige sofas inside a bright living room. Holding her belly and looking downward with a neutral expression, she seems to be contemplating signs that labor is starting. The room is decorated with various cushions, a blanket, and visible furniture.

What Are the Signs That Labor is Starting?

A woman with a floral tattoo on her shoulder is holding a sleeping newborn baby against her chest. She is smiling slightly with her eyes closed, exuding the serene contentment often associated with an orgasmic birth. The scene conveys a sense of warmth and bonding.

What is Orgasmic Birth? The Best-Kept Birth Secret

A smiling woman with long blonde hair is seated at a wooden desk in an office. She is wearing a gray blazer over a blue top. Behind her, certificates and framed documents are hung on the wall, showcasing her expertise in pelvic floor health. A computer and anatomical model are on the desk.

Postpartum Health

Pelvic Floor Health With Dr. Marcy: Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond

A pregnant woman is seated cross-legged on a yoga mat indoors, performing a seated twist to make childbirth easier. She is wearing a sports bra and leggings, and looking out of the window. Two beige armchairs and a wooden table with candles and plants are visible in the background.

Pregnancy Fitness

The Pregnancy Workout That Can Make Childbirth Easier

A woman lying in a hospital bed smiles while holding a newborn baby wrapped in a blanket with a foot print pattern. The baby, wearing a tiny hat, rests against the woman's chest as she experiences the joy Henci Goer often describes in her writings on childbirth.

Taking Charge of Your Birth with Henci Goer

The image is a side-by-side of two photos. On the left, Kam and Leroy, with Kam in a pink dress and Leroy in a light blue shirt, hold balloons. On the right, the same couple smiles with their newborn, Leroy now in a maroon shirt and Kam lovingly holding the baby.

Becoming Parents: Kam Williams & Leroy Garrett

A person lying in a hospital bed covers their face with both hands. Their hospital gown and medical wristband are visible, hinting at recent birth trauma. Medical equipment and a blurred background suggest a hospital setting. The lighting is soft, creating a calm but serious atmosphere.

Birth Trauma and How to Overcome a Difficult Birthing Experience

A close-up image of a placenta in a white tray, with a portion of the umbilical cord still attached. Blood and bodily fluids are visible in the tray. Surgical clamps are attached to the umbilical cord, posing questions on what to do with your placenta. The background is slightly blurred.

What To Do With Your Placenta After Giving Birth

A pregnant person in a hospital gown is sitting on a hospital bed in a patient room. They have an IV catheter in their hand and various medical equipment is visible, including an IV drip. The person appears to be in labor, focusing on their breathing, as they await the next stage of their hospital stay.

What to Expect When You Check Into the Hospital in Labor

A woman is lying in bed, smiling down at a newborn baby who is sleeping on her chest. The baby, wrapped in a blanket, appears to be resting comfortably. The background is out of focus, placing emphasis on the woman and the baby. Listening to a VBAC podcast nearby adds to their serene moment.

VBAC: Everything You Need to Know

A woman in a bathtub holds a newborn baby against her chest after a vaginal birth. The baby is crying, and the woman's eyes are closed as she rests her head back. A towel partially covers the newborn. The scene appears to be a home water birth.

What to Expect During Labor and a Vaginal Birth

A person wearing a hospital gown lies in bed, holding hands with another. The individual in bed, adorned with a white hospital wristband, appears to be resting with eyes closed. Behind them are a pillow and a blue object, possibly reflecting on why a natural birth was chosen.

Why Would Someone Want a Natural Birth?

A pregnant woman, mindful of birth during COVID, wears a face mask and blue gloves as she holds her belly. She stands against a plain white background, clad in a white tank top and dark pants.

Preparing for Birth During COVID-19

A woman in a water birthing pool holds a newborn baby in her arms, embodying the serene beauty often discussed on home birth podcasts. She has her eyes closed and is smiling gently. The baby rests against her chest with its tiny hands and feet visible. The image is in black and white.

Home Birth: Is It Safe?

A pregnant woman sits cross-legged on a bed, eyes closed and hands resting on her belly, absorbed in a calming hypnobirthing podcast. She wears a white tank top and blue jeans. The bed has white pillows and a dark, tufted headboard. The room is softly lit.

What Is HypnoBirthing?

A woman with long brown hair lies in a hospital bed, wearing a hospital gown and resting with her eyes closed. She has a nasal cannula for oxygen and an IV line attached to her arm, as she undergoes labor induction. The room has medical equipment visible in the background.

What You Need to Know about Labor Induction

A person is sitting on a sofa with a notebook and pen in hand, jotting down notes, possibly listening to a birth plan podcast. They appear to be pregnant, with one hand resting on their belly. Next to them are a pair of baby shoes and an ultrasound image. The setting is cozy and relaxed.

How to Write a Birth Plan

A pregnant woman sits cross-legged outdoors in a sunlit field, meditating with eyes closed. She is wearing a white blouse, black pants, and a flower crown, with sunlight streaming through the trees behind her, peacefully listening to a birth podcast to prepare for labor.

How to Prepare Your Mind and Body for Childbirth

A mother lies in a hospital bed, smiling as she holds her newborn baby on her chest. The baby is wrapped in a towel and appears to be sleeping. The mother, wearing a patterned hospital gown, reflects the joy often discussed on the Healthier Birth Podcast. Medical equipment and supplies are seen in the background.

12 Tips for a Happier and Healthier Birth

A pregnant woman lying in a hospital bed, hooked up to monitoring equipment, appears to be thoughtfully looking to her left. She wears a hospital gown with sensors attached to her belly, likely for fetal monitoring. Perhaps she's reflecting on a recent episode of the Go to the Hospital in Labor podcast.

When to Go to the Hospital in Labor as a First Time Mom

More from Birth

A close-up of a woman's lower abdomen showing a healed horizontal C-section scar, likely from a surgical procedure such as a C-section, with hands resting on either side and wearing beige underwear.

What to Expect During a C-Section: Part 2 – Podcast Ep 176

A woman lies in a hospital bed in the operating room holding her newborn baby on her chest. She and a person beside her, both wearing hairnets, are in a medical setting with monitors and equipment visible. The partner or anesthesiologist is wearing a mask and scrubs.

What to Expect During a C-Section: Part 1 – Podcast Ep 175

A newborn baby is being pulled up and held immediately after birth. The baby has a wet head and is crying, with eyes closed. Gloved hands support the baby, with a medical bracelet visible on the adults wrist. The setting is likely a hospital or birthing center.

The Power of Pushing During Labor: How To Do It & What to Expect – Podcast Ep 162

A new mother in a hospital gown gently holds and kisses her newborn baby wrapped in a striped blanket. They are in a bright room with soft lighting.

How To Prepare For A Great Hospital Birth – Podcast Ep 158

A black-and-white photo features a woman seated and smiling as two children, one on either side, kiss her cheeks. The woman gently holds each child with her hands. Despite any past birth trauma, all three appear happy and affectionate in this candid moment.

The Painful Reality of Longing for Another Baby After Birth Trauma

A pregnant woman lies on a hospital bed, covering her face with her hand. A medical professional in a purple uniform examines her abdomen with a device, while another person in white assists. The setting appears to be a labor and delivery room where the labor has stalled out.

Why Is This Taking So Long? When Labor Stalls Out

A black-and-white image of a newborn baby resting on their mother's chest after a safe birth. The mother lies in bed, looking up with a calm expression while holding the baby close under a blanket. The baby appears to be crying or making a facial expression.

Preparing for a Safe Birth & Healthy Baby With Gina Mundy – Podcast Ep 137

Pregnant woman writing a birth plan in a notebook while sitting cross-legged on the floor

How to Create a Birth Plan Plus Free Template and Checklist

A pregnant woman in a black tank top and leggings stands between two beige sofas inside a bright living room. Holding her belly and looking downward with a neutral expression, she seems to be contemplating signs that labor is starting. The room is decorated with various cushions, a blanket, and visible furniture.

What Are the Signs That Labor is Starting? – Podcast Ep 134

Two medical professionals wearing gloves are shown performing delayed cord clamping while cutting a newborn's umbilical cord with a clamp and scissors. The newborn, lying on a yellow sheet, is partially covered in blood. The background is blurred but suggests a clinical setting.

Delayed Cord Clamping: What It Is, Benefits, and Risks

Mother holding a newborn baby close to her chest, both wrapped in the serenity of birth affirmations. The baby is swaddled in a blanket and wearing a small hat, as they rest peacefully in a hospital setting.

25 Birth Affirmations To Help You Through Your Labor

A black and white image of a sleeping newborn baby lying on its side. The baby, born preterm, has curly hair and a breathing tube attached to its nose. The background is soft and out of focus.

Preterm Birth: What Is It and What Are the Risks?

A woman with a floral tattoo on her shoulder is holding a sleeping newborn baby against her chest. She is smiling slightly with her eyes closed, exuding the serene contentment often associated with an orgasmic birth. The scene conveys a sense of warmth and bonding.

What is Orgasmic Birth? The Best-Kept Birth Secret – Podcast Ep 121

A woman with curly hair holds a newborn wrapped in a white blanket adorned with colorful hand and foot prints. They are in a room with a brown door and medical posters detailing birthing positions visible in the background.

What I Wish I Knew Before Labor: 14 Honest Lessons

A woman in labor lies in a hospital bed wearing a blue gown, with monitoring equipment attached to her abdomen. Her face shows signs of effort as she lets out a deep groan. A person in a purple shirt is partially visible in the background, seated next to the bed.

Vocal Toning in Labor: Why Do Women Moan in Childbirth?

A pregnant woman in a blue hospital gown sits on an exercise ball in a medical room. She is looking down and placing her hands on her stomach. Hospital items, including medical equipment and a hospital bed, are visible in the background.

Hospital Items You Can Use In Labor That You Didn’t Know About

A woman with curly hair is leaning over a hospital bed, looking down. She is dressed in a hospital gown and appears to be in a hospital room with medical equipment visible in the background. She’s holding onto a pillow positioned on the bed, possibly practicing labor breathing techniques.

Breathing Techniques for Labor and How They Help

A woman is lying in a hospital bed, smiling and wearing a hospital gown. A person is placing their hand on her belly, checking on her. Medical equipment is visible in the background. The woman is also wearing an identification wristband—just in case no one told you, labor can be quite the journey!

30 Relatable Truths About Labor and Delivery That’ll Make You Laugh

A person with pink hair in a pink shirt and gray leggings is on all fours on a blue yoga mat. Another person in gray athletic wear and sneakers is assisting by placing hands on their back, applying pressure points for labor. They are outdoors, near a stone wall and blue cushioned bench.

How Counter Pressure During Labor Can Help

A woman leans forward with her eyes closed on a blue birthing ball while another person holds a yellow rebozo wrap around her upper torso. She is in a home setting with a couch visible in the background.

Rebozo: What It Is and How To Use It in Labor

A pregnant woman lies in a hospital bed with a fetal monitor belt around her abdomen, under observation for potential umbilical cord prolapse. A healthcare worker is seated beside her, carefully monitoring her condition. Medical equipment and monitors are visible in the background.

Umbilical Cord Prolapse: Diagnosis, Causes, and Treatment

A close-up photo showing the lower bodies of a baby wearing a light pink onesie and an adult, whose c-section scar is visible above striped underwear, lying next to each other on a white fabric surface.

How to Care for Your C-Section Scar for Healthy Healing

A woman in a hospital bed, wearing a teal hospital gown, appears to be in labor. She is lying on her back, holding her arm, with medical equipment and monitors visible in the background, possibly preparing for a Foley bulb induction procedure.

Foley Bulb Induction for Labor: What To Expect

A close-up of a medical instrument, likely a vaginal speculum, resting on a light blue draped surface. The background appears to be a blurred hospital or clinical setting with blue and white tones, hinting at the preparation for procedures like forceps delivery.

Forceps Delivery: What To Know

A person is lying on a hospital bed, wearing a patterned gown. They are resting hands on their exposed, pregnant belly, displaying a hospital wristband and a ring. The image in black and white poignantly captures the silent fear of potential complications like placental abruption.

Placental Abruption: What You Need To Know

A woman in a hospital bed, wearing a purple hospital gown and a wristband, looks to her left while holding the bed's rail. Connected to an IV line in her arm, she is under observation with medical equipment in the background, possibly preparing for labor induction with Cytotec.

Cytotec for Labor Induction: What To Know

A smiling woman with long blonde hair is seated at a wooden desk in an office. She is wearing a gray blazer over a blue top. Behind her, certificates and framed documents are hung on the wall, showcasing her expertise in pelvic floor health. A computer and anatomical model are on the desk.

Pelvic Floor Health With Dr. Marcy: Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond – Podcast Ep 112

Postpartum Health

A person is receiving a foot massage while lying down, with the masseuse's hands focusing on massaging the soles. In the background, the individual lies comfortably on a cushioned surface, possibly a massage table. This technique can be particularly beneficial when using acupressure during labor.

How To Use Acupressure During Labor

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Know What to Do When Labor Starts

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Start Your Birth Prep

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