Preparing for Labor and Delivery

Your pregnancy is a journey full of joy and anticipation, but it also comes with many questions. Each trimester of pregnancy will bring new questions and concerns about your health, the tests you might need and how you and your baby are doing. Whether you plan to get pregnant, are newly expecting, a first-time mom or previously pregnant, this guide is for you.

What Are the 3 Trimesters of Pregnancy Called?

Trimesters refer to the three segments or stages of pregnancy, during which your baby develops from an embryo into an infant ready to be born. Every pregnancy is unique and yours will not be the same as other women's. Regularly visiting your obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYNs) can help you get a clear picture of your unborn baby's and your health.

Here's what you need to know about the pregnancy trimesters:

First Trimester (Weeks 1–13)

The first trimester of pregnancy spans the first 12 weeks (about three months), beginning from the first day of your last period. During this time, the fertilized egg implants in the uterus and rapidly develops, forming major organs. By the 6th week, a heartbeat [KB1] can be detected and by the end of the trimester, your baby will have formed bones, muscles and visible sex organs. An ultrasound during this period helps monitor your baby’s early development.

Common early pregnancy symptoms, such as morning sickness, are due to hormonal changes. To manage nausea, avoid spicy and greasy foods, eat smaller, frequent meals rich in protein and complex carbs and stay hydrated. Fatigue is also common as your body adjusts to pregnancy—rest as much as possible.

Discuss with your healthcare provider the need for iron supplements, as anemia is common during pregnancy due to increased blood volume. Proper iron intake is crucial to prevent risks for both you and your baby. Hormonal changes may also cause headaches, sore breasts, mood swings and cravings.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13–28)

Many women feel better in the second trimester as morning sickness, breast tenderness and fatigue often ease. However, as your baby and abdomen grow, you may experience backaches and skin stretching, which can cause itching. Mild swelling of the face, feet and fingers is normal, but if swelling is extreme or you gain weight rapidly, contact your provider, as this may indicate preeclampsia.

During this trimester, your provider will order a glucose screening test to check for gestational diabetes. Your baby’s bones and muscles continue to develop, and you may start feeling movement. The baby develops a sucking reflex, can hear and swallow and forms protective layers like vernix and lanugo. By the end of the trimester, the baby’s bone marrow will start producing red blood cells and they will begin regular sleep/wake cycles.

Third Trimester (Week 28 to Birth)

The third trimester is a mix of excitement and discomfort. Your baby is gaining weight, and you will feel stronger kicks. By 37 weeks (about eight and a half months), your baby is ready for birth. However, moving around and sleeping can become challenging. Backaches, frequent urination and other discomforts are common as your baby grows.

The baby’s pressure on your rectum, perineum and bladder may cause constipation, hemorrhoids and frequent urination. You might also experience heartburn or false labor contractions. Around 35-37 weeks (about eight and a half months), your provider will test for group B strep (GBS), a common infection that can affect your baby during childbirth.

What Are the Birthing Services Available at Nacogdoches Women’s Services?

At Nacogdoches Women’s Services, we offer a range of birthing services to help make your experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Prenatal Care

Our prenatal care services are here to guide you every step of the way. From the moment you learn you are expecting, we provide the medical screenings, education and regular exams needed to monitor your health and your baby’s development. These check-ups are essential to ensure everything is progressing as it should and to address any concerns that may arise.

We also offer counseling and emotional support because we know that preparing for birth is about more than just physical health—it’s about feeling supported and informed. To help with this, we offer prenatal classes and childbirth classes designed to assist with your childbirth preparation.

Midwifery Services

For those seeking a more personalized and holistic approach, our midwifery services offer comprehensive care that begins even before conception. Our experienced midwives provide pre-conception support, helping you prepare your body and mind for pregnancy. This includes guidance on nutrition, lifestyle choices and overall reproductive health to optimize your chances of a healthy pregnancy.

From there, our midwives continue to support you through prenatal care, labor and delivery, with the help of a labor and delivery nurse to ensure you’re fully supported. We also provide birthing classes to help you feel confident and informed as you approach your delivery, and our care continues through postpartum recovery.

What To Expect From Pre-Admission for Expectant Mothers

Pre-admission is an essential step in your pregnancy journey, ensuring that everything is in place for a smooth and stress-free delivery. During this process, you will complete necessary paperwork, provide your medical history and discuss your birth plan with our team. It’s also a time to ask any last-minute questions and address any concerns you may have. Pre-admission helps streamline your hospital experience, allowing you to focus on what matters most—welcoming your new baby.

Prenatal Care Available From Nacogdoches Women’s Services

Doctors and midwives can help spot health problems during your pregnancy, allowing them to treat you as early as possible. During the first prenatal visit, here are some things your provider will do:

Ask about your health or medical history, including diseases, prior pregnancies or any prior surgery.
Ask about your family's medical history.
Do a complete physical exam, including a pelvic exam and Pap smear.
Take your urine and blood for lab work.
Check your height, weight and blood pressure.
Estimate your due date.

Take this time to ask questions and discuss any concerns related to your pregnancy and how to stay healthy. Your subsequent prenatal visits may be shorter, as your provider will check on your health and your baby's development. Most prenatal visits will include:

Measuring your abdomen to check your baby's growth
Measuring your weight gain
Checking your blood pressure
Checking your baby's heart rate

Your provider may also order routine tests while you're pregnant, including blood work to check your blood type, anemia, HIV and more. Talk to your provider to learn more details about prenatal care and tests you may need.

How To Manage Pain During Labor

Managing pain during labor is a personal decision, and there are several options available to help you cope with the discomfort. It’s important to note that your healthcare provider is your best resource when deciding which pain relief option is right for you. Here’s a simple guide to understanding your choices:

Medication Options

Systemic Analgesia (Opioids): These medications reduce your awareness of pain and have a calming effect. They are typically given through an IV or as a shot. While effective, they may cause drowsiness and can affect your baby’s breathing and heart rate for a brief time after birth.

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): This is a gas that you inhale through a mask to help you feel more relaxed and less anxious during labor. It doesn’t eliminate pain but makes it easier to manage. Some mothers may experience dizziness or nausea, but these effects pass quickly.
Local anesthesia (pudendal block): This type of anesthesia is used to numb a specific area, such as the vagina and perineum, just before delivery. It’s particularly useful if you need an episiotomy or stitches after birth.
Regional pain relief (epidural and spinal blocks): Epidurals are the most common form of pain relief during labor in the U.S. They provide significant pain relief by numbing the lower half of your body, allowing you to remain awake and alert. Spinal blocks are similar but usually provide shorter-term relief, making them ideal for cesarean births.
General anesthesia: This is used only in emergency situations and puts you into a sleep-like state. It’s fast-acting but carries more risks for both you and your baby, including temporary breathing issues for the newborn.

Non-Medical Approaches

Breathing and relaxation techniques: Practicing these techniques can help you manage pain and stay calm during labor.
Massage and position changes: Having your partner massage your lower back or help you change positions can help provide relief and make labor more comfortable.
Heat and cold therapy: Warm baths, showers or compresses can help soothe pain, while cold packs can relieve discomfort in specific areas.
Remember, managing pain during labor is about finding what works best for you and your baby. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your healthcare team—they are there to support you through this important experience.

Why Is Breastfeeding Support Important for New Mothers?

Breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial process for both mother and baby, but it often comes with its own set of challenges that may feel overwhelming to new mothers. This is where breastfeeding support becomes crucial. Providing new mothers with the right guidance, education and emotional support can make a significant difference in their breastfeeding journey.

1. Addressing Challenges: Breastfeeding can present various challenges, such as latch difficulties, low milk supply and sore nipples. Trained lactation consultants offer personalized assistance to help mothers overcome these obstacles, ensuring a more successful and comfortable breastfeeding experience.

2. Enhancing Confidence: Many new mothers experience self-doubt about their ability to breastfeed effectively. Supportive breastfeeding services provide reassurance and practical advice, boosting a mother’s confidence in her ability to nourish her baby.

3. Promoting Health Benefits: Breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits for both mother and baby, including enhanced immunity, optimal nutrition and reduced risk of certain illnesses. By supporting mothers in their breastfeeding journey, healthcare providers help ensure that these health benefits are realized, contributing to the overall well-being of the mother and her child.

At Nacogdoches Women’s Services, we are dedicated to helping you prepare for successful labor and delivery through comprehensive education, personalized support and access to experienced professionals. Our team is here to provide guidance and reassurance, ensuring that you are well-prepared and confident as you approach this important moment. Reach out to us to schedule your consultation and begin your preparation journey.