Unique & Personal > During Labor

When labor begins, you may come to the Alternative Birth Care Unit after checking with your care provider and the Unit. Once admitted, the following will occur while in labor:

• Mother’s vital signs are monitored
• Fetal heart rate is checked frequently
• Liquids and light nourishment are encouraged since IVs are not routine
• Mothers are encouraged to move around, walk, shower or use whatever positions are comfortable
• Please discuss your preferences with your provider including frequency of vaginal exams, artificial rupture of membranes, birth positions and use of Oxytocin after delivery
• Siblings may be present if there is another adult besides the mother and father present to oversee their activities
• Any family members or visitors may be present at the birth if the couple wishes
• IV pain medication is available, if needed
• Local anesthesia is available for episiotomies if one is necessary
• Labor-inducing drugs (Pitocin) and epidural anesthesia are not administered in the Alternative Birth Care Unit
• A continuous electronic fetal monitor is available to the ABC Unit from Labor and Delivery. It can be used to determine if there is a need for transfer
• Cesarean section is immediately available in Labor and Delivery under emergency situations