Many parents know that there is a chance that their children could have genetic injuries or illnesses. What they don’t want to see is a preventable illness or injury affect their newborn.
Expectant parents can take some steps to prevent birth injuries, but at the point when it’s most important, it is the medical provider’s responsibility to deliver the child safely and to help the mother recover.
If you are an expectant parent, it’s a good idea to do your part to make the process easier. A few things you should do include:
- Selecting an obstetrician who is qualified and who makes you feel comfortable.
- Starting prenatal care early and going through regular checkups with a specific, qualified provider.
- Talk to your doctor about your questions and concerns openly. Make a plan for the birth, what happens if the doctor is unavailable and when to seek emergency medical care.
- Having a healthy pregnancy will minimize the risk of complications later. It’s smart to preregister at the hospital and to have a chat with the team about the process once it’s time for your child’s birth.
Since labor tends to be a longer process, it’s valuable to ask for an explanation of any monitors or medical equipment that is going to be used. Remember, the medical team is busy, so you should call them and let them know if any of the equipment is showing sudden changes or sounding alarms.
If you or your partner are feeling unwell during labor, voice your concerns. Being upfront about your feelings and health will help reduce the risk of complications throughout the birthing process.
