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.

Some hospitals aren’t letting women push during birth when they need to—and that’s not OK

"I've never felt a more painful experience in my life [than] being strapped down and forced to hold a baby in," says Elaina Loveland.

Updated Aug. 07, 2024
Woman in labor at hospital evidence-backed ways to prevent perineal tears during birth

5 evidence-backed ways to prevent perineal tears during birth

Recent research has changed the way we think about perineal tears and episiotomies.

Updated Apr. 03, 2024
pregnant woman holding belly

7 things to think about when you go past your due date

We are here to tell you that it really will be ok! Here are some thing to keep in mind during these final days of your pregnancy.

Updated Apr. 01, 2024
mom holding newborn in a hospital bed

Should I get an epidural?

8 questions about getting an epidural during labor, answered.

Updated Apr. 01, 2024

This mom just gave birth in 45 minutes and this common supplement may be why

How does melatonin affect labor? Researchers are finding out.

Updated Sep. 15, 2022
c section picture showing baby being delivered after surgery

13 incredibly powerful & poignant C-section photos

These viral photos and videos tell the stories of birth and strength.

Updated Sep. 21, 2022
mom kissing newborn baby in the hospital after getting induced at 39 weeks

My birth story: I was induced at 39 weeks

I am a proud mom of five, two of whom I have given birth to.

Updated Sep. 14, 2022
mom holding newborn baby after giving birth for the first time

8 surprising things to know about giving birth for the first time

2. Every birth is different.

Updated Oct. 05, 2022
mom helping older sibling hold baby after giving birth the second time

5 surprising facts about giving birth the second time around

You might feel more cramping after birth—but also more confidence.

Updated Oct. 05, 2022

10 reasons to use turmeric after birth

This bright kitchen spice has powerful health benefits.

Updated Sep. 15, 2022
mom holding newborn in bed - postpartum shaking

Yes, you might shake after giving birth—and it’s totally normal

I wish someone had warned me about postpartum shaking.

Updated Jan. 26, 2024
pregnant woman in labor - grandma helped me through labor

How my grandma helped me through labor and delivery

At the end of it all, we are home safe and healthy, which is exactly what my birth plan was. 

Updated Jan. 09, 2024
mother holding newborn baby in hospital bed and smiling possibly after using laughing gas for labor

More women are using laughing gas for pain relief during labor—here’s why

According to ACOG, nitrous oxide "reduces anxiety and increases a feeling of well-being so that pain is easier to deal with."

Updated Aug. 30, 2022

17 important phrases to say if you’re being mistreated while giving birth

Repeat after us: "You do not have my permission."

Updated Oct. 02, 2024
new mom in hospital with newborn - birth stories

The power of the birth story: A tale of reclaiming mine

There is healing from even the heaviest wounds.

Updated Dec. 06, 2023
woman driving rv - give birth in another state

One mom drove an RV across state lines in search of a better birth

Ten years ago, Mimi Evans drove 1,300 miles from Texas to give birth in Virginia. After Roe’s overturn, more mothers are being forced to travel to give birth safely. How far would you go for the birth experience you deserve?

Updated Oct. 25, 2023
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