Labor & Delivery - CWC Howard

Labor & Delivery at Capital Women’s Care Howard County

Welcoming your baby into the world is one of life’s most special moments, and at Capital Women’s Care Howard County, we’re honored to be part of your journey. Our team is here to provide you with compassionate, expert care throughout labor and delivery—focused on your safety, comfort, and peace of mind.

We deliver babies at Howard County Medical Center where you'll be supported every step of the way by a caring team of doctors, nurses, and specialists.

Understanding Labor

Every labor experience is unique—just like every pregnancy. Your body will go through a series of natural changes as it prepares to bring your baby into the world. Labor happens in three stages, and the process can look and feel different each time, even for the same person.

Labor Has Three Stages

Stage 1: Early (Latent) Labor

In this first phase, your body begins the process of preparing for birth. You may experience signs like:

Losing your mucus plug – This can look clear, pink, or slightly bloody. It’s your body’s way of signaling that labor may be starting.
Irregular contractions – These are usually mild and unpredictable. They help your cervix begin to open (dilate) and thin (efface).
Water breaking – This may feel like a sudden gush or a steady trickle of fluid. If you think your water has broken, call your doctor right away.
Cervical changes – Your cervix gradually thins and opens to allow your baby to pass through the birth canal.

Comfort tips at home during early labor:

Take a warm shower or bath
Rest or nap if you can
Try gentle movement like walking or swaying
Use breathing and relaxation techniques
Watch a movie, read, or listen to calming music

When Should I Go to the Hospital?

As labor progresses, your contractions will become more regular, longer, and more intense. You should head to the hospital when:

Contractions are strong and come every 3–5 minutes, lasting 45–60 seconds for at least an hour
You think your water has broken
You are experiencing bleeding
Your contractions are very uncomfortable, and you’re unsure if it's time

Always feel free to call us if you’re unsure—your peace of mind is important.

Active Labor

Once you're in active labor, your contractions will be more intense and closer together. You may feel:

Restless or excited
The urge to shift positions frequently
The need to begin pain management strategies
Ready for medications or support techniques

Everyone experiences active labor differently, and we’re here to guide and support you through it.

Pain Management Options

We support your choices in how you manage labor pain—whether that's with natural methods, medication, or both.

Non-Medical Options:

Breathing exercises and relaxation techniques
Warm showers
Massage, counter-pressure, or acupressure
Movement and position changes (walking, birthing ball, squatting)
Heat or cold packs

Medical Options:

Narcotics (Opioids) – Short-term relief, usually given in early labor
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) – A self-controlled, fast-acting option
Epidural Anesthesia – Numbs the lower body; allows you to rest while staying alert

We'll talk with you about your preferences and help you make informed decisions that feel right for you.

The Birth of Your Baby

As you reach full dilation, it’s time to push. You may feel:

A strong urge to push with each contraction
Pressure in your pelvis and rectum
A burning or stretching sensation as your baby’s head crowns

The pushing phase can be quick or take a few hours, especially for first-time births. Your care team will guide and support you throughout, helping you find positions that feel best and cheering you on every step of the way.

Operative Vaginal Delivery (if needed)

Sometimes, additional help is needed to assist your baby through the birth canal. A vacuum-assisted delivery may be recommended if:

Labor isn’t progressing as expected
Your baby shows signs of distress

Your doctor will explain everything clearly and answer your questions so you feel confident and supported in your care.

What Will My Baby Look Like?

Right after birth, your baby may be:

Covered in vernix, a creamy, protective coating
A little blue or purple at first (this fades as they begin to breathe regularly)
Wrinkled or have a cone-shaped head from passing through the birth canal

All of this is perfectly normal. You’ll be able to hold your baby skin-to-skin right away if both of you are stable, promoting bonding and breastfeeding.

Delivery of the Placenta

After your baby is born, your uterus will continue to contract to help deliver the placenta. This usually happens within a few minutes. You may feel some pressure or mild cramping.

After the Birth

You’ll stay in the hospital for 1–2 nights, longer if you’ve had a cesarean. During this time:

Nurses may massage your uterus to reduce bleeding
Any tears or incisions will be stitched
You may be given ice packs, pain medications, and lots of support to help you recover and bond with your baby

Cesarean Delivery (C-Section)

Sometimes, a vaginal birth isn't possible or safe, and a C-section becomes the best option. This may be planned or decided during labor due to:

Baby’s position (e.g., breech)
Multiple babies
Previous C-section
Health concerns for mom or baby
Labor that isn’t progressing

Your doctor will explain the procedure and answer your questions.

During a C-section:

You’ll receive anesthesia (usually an epidural or spinal block)
A small incision is made in the abdomen and uterus
Your baby is born, and the placenta is removed
The incision is closed with dissolvable stitches or surgical glue

Recovery After C-Section

After a cesarean, most patients stay in the hospital 2–4 nights. At home, healing takes time. You may experience:

Mild cramping (especially if breastfeeding)
Vaginal bleeding for 4–6 weeks
Incision pain

To help your body heal:

Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for several weeks
Rest as much as you can
Keep your incision clean and dry
Avoid sex or using tampons for at least 6 weeks

Call us if you notice:

Fever
Heavy bleeding
Worsening pain
Signs of infection at the incision site

We’re Here for You

At Capital Women’s Care, we’re honored to be part of your birth story. Whether your delivery goes exactly as planned or takes an unexpected turn, our goal is to ensure you feel safe, informed, and supported—every step of the way.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. You’re never alone in this journey.

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