As your due date approaches, it’s natural to feel both excited and nervous about the big day. At Banner Health, we’re here to guide you through every stage of labor, delivery and recovery with compassionate, expert care.
Our labor and delivery teams are made up of experienced OB-GYNs, nurses, anesthesiologists, midwives and neonatal specialists - all focused on supporting a safe, personalized birth experience for you and your baby.
Before labor begins, take a few simple steps to help your delivery go smoothly:
Your Banner Health OB provider will help you understand when it’s time to head to the hospital or birth center. In general, we recommend coming in about an hour after active labor begins or when your contractions are three to five minutes apart and lasting at least 45 seconds.
Every pregnancy is different, so talk with your doctor early about what to expect and when to call. If you experience heavy bleeding, your water breaks or you notice a change in your baby’s movement, contact your provider right away.
As your due date gets closer, it’s normal to have questions about what labor will feel like and how it will unfold. Labor and delivery happen in a series of stages, each with its own physical and emotional changes.
While every birth is different, most vaginal deliveries follow a similar pattern, from early labor and active contractions to pushing and birthing your baby, followed by the release of the placenta. Your care team will guide you through each step, helping manage pain, monitor your baby and support your birth plan along the way.
Learn more about the stages of labor and delivery.
When it’s time, you’ll be welcomed to a labor and delivery suite or birthing room equipped with modern technology and comfort-focused amenities. Our teams continuously monitor you and your baby’s health to ensure safety and support your preferred birth experience whenever possible.
If you require or choose a cesarean section (C-section), your procedure will take place in a dedicated surgical suite with specialized OB anesthesia and postpartum care.
Our goal is to make sure you feel supported, informed and confident throughout your delivery - no matter what path your birth takes.
We offer a variety of delivery options and supportive services to help create the right experience for you and your growing family.
Sometimes, a C-section is the safest choice for you or your baby. Learn how to prepare, what happens during surgery and what to expect during recovery.
Recovery after a C-section is unique for every mother. Find out what happens in the hours and days following surgery and how our care team supports your healing.
Learn about C-section recovery.
Many women choose natural childbirth as part of their birth plan. Discover what to expect, breathing and comfort techniques and how to recover naturally after delivery.
Learn about natural childbirth.
At Banner Health, we honor your choices for a more personal birth experience. Midwives provide expert, holistic care during pregnancy, labor and postpartum recovery.
If labor begins before 37 weeks, our experienced teams are ready to act quickly. Learn how we care for mothers and babies during preterm labor and early delivery.
Expecting twins, triplets, or more? Our maternal-fetal medicine specialists offer advanced monitoring and delivery care for multiple pregnancies.
Learn about multiple pregnancy.
Pain relief is an important part of labor for many women. Epidurals are one of the most common and effective methods used today. Learn how they work and what to expect.
Sometimes labor needs a gentle push to begin. Learn why your doctor may recommend induction, how it’s done and what to expect during the process.
Once your baby arrives, our nurses and postpartum care team will help you with early bonding, feeding support and recovery. Whether you’re a first-time parent or growing your family, we’re here to help you feel confident and supported as you begin this new chapter.
At Banner Health, we believe every birth is unique. Our caring teams provide a safe, supportive environment where your preferences are respected, your comfort matters and your baby’s health always comes first.