Hospital Birth Guide for First-Time Moms

You're expecting your first baby - congratulations!

As your due date approaches, it's natural to have questions about what happens when labor begins.

Understanding the birth process, knowing what to pack, and learning what support is available can help transform anxiety into confident anticipation.

With over 15 years of experience supporting expectant mothers, Tracy shares answers to the most common questions first-time moms ask.

Before You Go: Preparing for Labor

When Should I Go to the Hospital?

For first-time moms, knowing when to head to the hospital can feel uncertain. Remember: we'd rather check you than have you worry at home.

Come to the hospital if you experience:

• Contractions that are regular, strong and occur about every five minutes for at least an hour
• Water breaking, even if you're not having contractions (may be a gush or slow trickle)
• Bright red vaginal bleeding (more than light spotting)
• Decreased fetal movement (fewer kicks than normal for your baby)
• Severe headaches, vision changes or shortness of breath (potential signs of preeclampsia)

 If you're uncertain or concerned, always call your doctor or contact your local obstetric emergency department.

We prefer you call than worry at home and search online for answers.

Hospital Bag Checklist for First-Time Moms

Pack your hospital bag around 36 weeks so you're ready when labor begins.

Essential Documents & Items:

• Insurance card, hospital paperwork and photo ID
• Birth plan (if you have one)
• Phone and charger
• Infant car seat properly installed in your vehicle

 For Your Comfort:

• Nightgown or comfortable robe and non-slip slippers
• Two to three pairs of comfortable underwear
• Basic toiletries (toothbrush, deodorant, lip balm, hair ties)
• Going-home clothes (soft, loose-fitting)

 For Baby:

• Going-home outfit in newborn and 0-3 month sizes
• Weather-appropriate outerwear (blanket, hat)

 If Your Planning to Breastfeed:

• Nursing bra and pillow
• Breast pump (check if your insurance provides one)

Our nurses will provide comprehensive breastfeeding education during your stay.

During Your Stay: Labor & Delivery Support

Pain Management Options for Labor

Your care team will discuss the benefits and risks of each option based on your situation and preferences.

Epidural Anesthesia: The most common pain relief method. Delivered through a small catheter in your lower back, it takes effect within 10-20 minutes and significantly reduces contraction pain while allowing you to feel pressure and push.

IV Pain Medication: Takes the edge off contractions without completely eliminating sensation. Works quickly but may cause drowsiness, lasting two to four hours.

Nitrous Oxide: Self-administered through a mask, it helps you relax during contractions without affecting your ability to move or push.

Natural Pain Management: Breathing exercises, position changes, hydrotherapy, massage, and guided imagery.

"You don't have to decide on pain management before labor begins," Tracy explains. "Many moms start with natural methods and request an epidural later. We'll support whatever feels right for you."

Can I Have a Midwife or Doula at My Delivery?

Doulas are welcome to work alongside our medical team. Research shows they can improve birth outcomes and satisfaction.

Our delivering providers offer midwife services for low-risk pregnancies, providing personalized, family-centered care with a focus on supporting your natural birth preferences.

After Delivery: Postpartum Support & Care

Breastfeeding Support at HSHS

Lactation consultants are available at the hospital and offer:

• Hands-on assistance with latching and positioning

• Education about milk supply and feeding patterns
• Problem-solving for common challenges
• Continued support after discharge, including one-on-one visits and support groups

We offer the added service of breast milk dispensaries at two HSHS locations, HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, Ill., and HSHS St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay, Wis., where you can safely purchase pasteurized donor milk from an accredited milk bank if needed.

Postpartum Warning Signs: When to Seek Help

Most postpartum discomfort is normal, but certain symptoms require immediate medical attention.

Go to the emergency department if you experience:

• Fever over 100.4°F
• Heavy bleeding that soaks through a pad per hour
• Severe abdominal pain, headache, or vision changes
• Redness, warmth, or pain in your legs (possible blood clot)
• Open or infected incision
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Severe mood changes or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

"New moms sometimes hesitate to call because they don't want to 'bother' us," Tracy notes.

"But if something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts. If you are unsure or have any questions, always contact your doctor or your local obstetric emergency department."

Classes & Tours for New Parents

HSHS Women and Infants Centers offer classes taught by registered nurses along with tours of their facilities. Classes include childbirth preparation, breastfeeding basics, newborn care and infant CPR, and more to help you prepare with your partner or support person. 

Put your mind at ease and take a tour to see our birthing suites and get to know the staff. Tours and classes fill quickly, so be sure to register during your second trimester. Visit your local HSHS hospital’s classes page to view the complete schedule and register for your class or tour today.

• HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital

• HSHS St. John’s Hospital
• HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital Breese
• HSHS St. Francis Hospital
• HSHS St. Anthony’s Hospital
• HSHS St Vincent Hospital
• HSHS St. Nicholas Hospital

You're Ready for This

Preparing for your first hospital birth takes learning, planning, and trusting that support will be there every step of the way.

You don't have to have it all figured out. From your first contraction through those quiet early days with your baby, you'll have a team beside you who's helped many first-time parents through the same moments, and who's ready to help you through yours.