Labor & Delivery HOUSTON METHODIST CHILDBIRTH CENTER AT SUGAR LAND
PAIN RELIEF OPTIONS Every woman’s labor is unique; the level of pain endured will vary with each woman. Our goal is to ensure our patients have the safest and most pleasant birthing experience possible. Based on your personal wishes and your physician’s recommendations, anesthesia may be an option. In-house anesthesiologists, who are available 24/7, are committed to providing you with safe and effective pain management during your labor and delivery. Epidural anesthesia is the most common type, as it allows the mother to remain alert and involved in the delivery process. Your doctor will discuss these options with you at length. For more information or to prepay for anesthesia services, call 972.715.5080.
CESAREAN BIRTH Cesarean sections, or C-sections, are sometimes planned in advance because of an existing medical condition or because more than two babies will be birthed. In other instances, a C-section is performed when difficulties in labor create concern about the health of the baby or the mother. In the event that you need to have a C-section, anesthesia will keep you comfortable. In most cases, mothers remain awake during the procedure and spouses or support persons are invited to be present. Due to a longer recovery time, your hospital stay may be extended a few days. However, with the help of a nurse, you should be up and out of bed within 24 hours. Mothers who have had a C-section should arrange for extra assistance at home to help take care of you and your household so you can recover and bond with your baby.
POSTPARTUM Happiness, amazement and relief will overcome you as your baby enters the world. Once you have had time to recover, you and your family will be moved to your private suite on the postpartum wing for time to bond with your newborn during the first hours of his/her life. During the remainder of your stay, you and your baby will be cared for by nurses who specialize in mother-baby care. Lactation support is available to help you learn the best technique for feeding your baby, which is encouraged during this time. In keeping with our quality care, babies are weighed, given preventative eye infection treatment and an injection of vitamin K. Your chosen pediatrician will check your baby’s vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate. 6