The last few months of pregnancy are a good time for expectant mothers to think about the birth of their baby. Duke Ob/Gyn has compiled an informational guide to provide pregnant women with information about about perineal massage, warm compresses, support during labor, induction of labor and how to manage contractions. Medical studies, such the ARRIVE study (A Randomized Trial of Induction Versus Expectant Management), showed these methods can help women have a safe and healthy birth.
The patient education resource in both English and Spanish, is now available for digital distribution to Duke Health patients via MyChart. The document was created by Senior Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellow Annalies DeNoble, MD, MSc.
The resources answers questions about the following:
- How can I prepare for the birth of my baby?
- How can perineal massage help me prepare for birth?
- Should I use warm compresses while pushing?
- Do I need a support person during labor?
- What is an induction of labor and do I need one?
- What can I do to manage pain in labor?