Giving Birth - Everything You Need to Know - Motherly
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Birth

It’s go time, mama! Whether you’re counting down the days or trying to plan ahead, learn more about giving birth with advice and essays from real mamas.

nebworn in the nicu

Seven Nights in the NICU

A mom reminisces on the nerve-wracking--and heart-warming--time she spent in the NICU.

Updated Jan. 14, 2022

5 Things to Do Before You Go Into Labor

The ultimate to-do list before baby arrives.

Updated Feb. 13, 2024
C-section rates by hospital: mother kissing newborn baby on cheek in hospital

Yelp just made it easier to find C-section rates by hospital

What decision is more important: Where to have dinner or where to deliver your baby?

Updated Oct. 06, 2022
woman cradling her pregnant belly, wondering how to avoid a c section

Wondering how to avoid a c-section? New study says to get moving during pregnancy

The new study has already caused U.K. health officials to recommend 150 minutes of weekly exercise for expectant moms. 

Updated Sep. 23, 2022

I Had Fake Labor and Still Birthed at Home

A mama labored at home for 70 hours before meeting her new bundle.

Updated Oct. 12, 2021

How to Escape from Labor Pain

A little creative thinking could help transport you to a less painful place during and after birth.

Updated Feb. 22, 2025

What I Learned about Motherhood in the NICU

Why this twin mom considers her experience there a gift.

Updated Aug. 15, 2022

5 Mistakes Partners Make During Labor

And what to do instead for labor support.

Updated Oct. 12, 2021

4 Common Birth Interventions You Can Avoid

And how to avoid them in the most natural way possible.

Updated Oct. 12, 2021

4 Ways Your Body Works With You During Birth

Your body works in magical ways to help you meet your new bundle.

Updated Jan. 14, 2022

I Gave Birth Totally Unassisted

The true story of one mama’s “free birth.”

Updated Oct. 12, 2021
woman holding her pregnant belly as she takes steps on how to prepare for a c section

8 things to do now to prepare for your C-section

We've got helpful tips on how to prepare for your C-section recovery now to set you up for success after you bring your precious bundle home.

Updated Oct. 05, 2022
an array of food

What should you eat right after birth?

Eat the right foods to keep you going after delivery.

Updated Jan. 31, 2022
birth partner holding mom's hand as she wonders what to do for a long labor

What Should I Do For Long Labor?

6 ways to pace your way through labor.

Updated Dec. 21, 2022

8 Tips to Be A Better Birth Partner

Uncertain about your role as birth partner? This is the guide for you.

Updated Jan. 19, 2023

7 Essentials For Your Hospital Bag

Find out what you need for birth and what you should leave home.

Updated Nov. 01, 2022
mom holding newborn baby

Snuggle time: 9 things to do in the hospital after your baby’s birth

Skin-to-skin, baby’s first photos and taking care of you. 

Updated Feb. 01, 2022
mom holding newborn baby in a hospital bed

The 10 questions to ask on your hospital tour

Here are some questions we like to ask on hospital tours.

Updated Nov. 28, 2022

3 Ways to Rethink Contractions

What if contractions weren't about pain after all?

Updated Oct. 12, 2021
man and woman embracing her pregnant belly

My baby was misdiagnosed with Trisomy 18

What it feels like to hear your baby might have a genetic disease.

Updated Feb. 11, 2022
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