Things You Should Do Before Your Partner Goes into Labor

Waiting for the arrival of a new baby is very exciting! It may seem like it’s a long way away but trust us, if your partner is pregnant, that baby is right around the corner. Are you ready? Here are some things you and your partner need to do before labor begins.

• Get the baby gear ready. You may already be preparing the nursery, but now is also the time to unbox and assemble all the things you got at the baby shower! Install your car seat, assemble your changing table, swing, bouncer, and other equipment you’ll use in the first few months. In fact, if you have room for it all, you can go ahead and put together things your baby won’t use for quite a while. Trust us, you won’t feel like assembling that exersaucer while holding a baby.
• Load up on essentials. Stockpile things like cleaning products, paper products, and toiletries, so that you don’t have to think about shopping while you’re sleep-deprived and caring for a newborn. While you’re at it, stock your medicine chest with over the counter medicines and first-aid supplies, as well as any prescriptions you might forget to refill once you’re preoccupied with a baby.
• Fill your freezer. You may have meals lined up through your friends and family members, but it never hurts to stick some casseroles in the freezer. It’s good to have healthy meals available so you won’t be tempted to order out.
• Make arrangements for your furry babies. If you’ve got pets, anticipate that they’re going to need some care when the baby comes. Arrange not only for someone to take care of them while you’re in the hospital, but also for someone to come play with them and give them attention after you’re home. Expect them to be a little jealous when you’re giving all of your attention to this new little stranger.
• Plan some nights out. Have a last hoorah with your friends or plan a babymoon for the two of you. The mom-to-be might also want to take a day all to herself to be self-indulgent and pampered. It will be a while before you get another chance to hit the town, so you might as well do it before the baby arrives.
• Schedule some preventive care. Go to the optometrist, the dentist, and any other doctor you might need to see for routine care before your calendar fills up with baby care.
• Make plans for the birth announcement. Are you planning to hire a photographer to take newborn photos? Get an appointment in the books! If you’re planning to mail out birth announcements, design them ahead of time, so that when the baby comes you can just fill in the details and get them done.
• Get ready for the hospital trip. This means taking a hospital tour, packing a bag, and driving the route you’ll take when the baby comes so that it will be familiar when it’s go time. As the due date approaches, make sure to keep your gas tank full.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start families with healthy pregnancies. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Everything You Need to Know About Couvade Syndrome

Have you ever heard of Couvade syndrome? If you haven’t, you may know it by its more familiar moniker, sympathetic pregnancy. First noted in 1865 by anthropologist Edward Burnett Tylor, this condition is actually much more common than you might think.

Couvade syndrome comes from the French “couvee”, which means “to hatch.” It happens when fathers-to-be who are otherwise healthy begin experiencing pregnancy-related symptoms. The symptoms of Couvade are vague and varied, and can include nausea, heartburn, abdominal pain or bloating, leg cramps, backaches, breathing issues, weight gain or loss, and urinary or genital irritation. About 40 percent of men with Couvade syndrome can even experience tooth pain. Dads with Couvade may experience psychological symptoms like reduced libido, restlessness, anxiety, or depression as well. Sometimes, men with Couvade syndrome can experience such a high level of stress that they may even risk a mini-stroke.

Interestingly, even though it’s been around a long time and affects a large number of people, Couvade syndrome is not an official diagnosis. It’s not considered a disease or even a psychological condition. So, why does it happen to so many men? And how many men does it actually affect?

Estimates of how many men are affected are imprecise. Part of the reason for this is that this syndrome has been studied more by anthropologists and sociologists than the medical community. What we do know is that your likelihood of developing Couvade syndrome varies depending on your culture, how involved you are with your partner’s pregnancy, and how stressful the entire situation is for you. It’s also more likely to happen when a couple has experienced infertility or pregnancy loss. When it occurs, Couvade syndrome typically kicks in during the first trimester, eases during the second, and reoccurs during the third, much like a woman’s pregnancy symptoms. It doesn’t necessarily go away after childbirth, however. Many men with this syndrome experience postpartum depression, probably because they’re living through similar stressors to their partners, including lack of sleep, a massive sense of responsibility, and overall disruption to their lives.

If you or your partner are experiencing Couvade syndrome, what can you do? The most important thing is to keep the communication flowing. While this syndrome is ill-defined, it is fairly common, and knowing that can alleviate some of the stress. If the symptoms are particularly concerning, seek medical care. Otherwise, just do your best to take care of each other and make sure both partners are getting plenty of rest, eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start families with healthy pregnancies. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Signs of Pregnancy

Are you wondering if you might be pregnant? Whether you’ve been trying to get pregnant or would rather not, it can be a tense time while you wait for the answer. Here are some signs you might notice in the early stages of pregnancy.

• Missing your period is an early sign of pregnancy. If you’re more than a week late, you may be pregnant. This may not be a reliable sign, however, especially if your cycles are typically irregular. Missed periods can also happen because of weight fluctuations, exhaustion, a new exercise regimen, stress, a change in birth control, or hormonal imbalance. Delayed menstruation sometimes occurs when you’re breastfeeding, or because of an illness. If the cause is a mystery, talk to your doctor.
• Changes in your breasts can indicate pregnancy. Soon after conception, many women experience swelling, soreness, or tingling in the breasts due to hormonal changes. Your breasts may feel heavier or tender to the touch. It’s important to remember, though, that these things can also be a sign of impending menstruation, new birth control, or another hormonal shift.
• Morning sickness can cause nausea with or without vomiting. Don’t be deceived by the name- it can happen at all times of the day and night. This varies from woman to woman, and some never experience it. Nausea during pregnancy is probably due to hormones, but nausea can also occur if you’re not pregnant, because of stress, anxiety, changes in birth control, or simply a stomach bug.
• If you’re making frequent trips to the bathroom, you may be pregnant. Your blood volume increases when you’re pregnant, leading to excess fluid in your body, which results in more frequent urination. If you’re urinating frequently and you’re not pregnant, ask your doctor to check your kidney function.
• Most women who are pregnant experience fatigue. This is because of a rise in progesterone during the first trimester, and typically goes away by the second. Of course, you may also be fatigued because of stress, illness, lack of sleep, change in exercise routine, or another cause.
• Some pregnancy symptoms are less common, but that doesn’t make them any less real. Some women experience spotting during implantation of the embryo. You might be constantly hungry and crave certain foods, or you might dislike foods you previously liked. Pregnancy can bring all kinds of symptoms, like headaches, dizziness, cramping, mood swings, and even a metallic taste in your mouth.

Because there are so many factors that can cause the same symptoms as pregnancy, the most accurate way to know if you’re pregnant is to take a test. You can take a home test as soon as you’ve missed your period or make an appointment for a blood test with your doctor. Whether you find out at home or in the office, make sure to schedule prenatal care as soon as possible to get your baby off to the best possible start.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start families with healthy pregnancies. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

What is Lightning Crotch Pain?

It’s got a cringey name, but that doesn’t make lightning crotch pain any less serious for the women who experience it. What is it and why does it happen? More importantly, what should you do about it if it happens to you?

A sudden, shooting pain that’s felt in the pelvis, rectum, or vagina, lightning crotch is often felt in the third trimester of pregnancy. In addition to the shooting pain, it can include symptoms like a pins and needles sensation, as well as pain that radiates down the legs. Sometimes the pain is so intense that it causes the woman to double over in response, but the pain typically comes on suddenly and dissipates quickly.

Doctors aren’t completely sure why this happens, but there are a variety of possible causes. First, as the growing fetus moves, pressure on the nerves can cause sharp pain. Then, too, as the baby’s head drops lower into the pelvis in preparation for labor, the new position can also cause pressure on sensitive parts of the body. Finally, as the body prepares for birth, the pelvic bones can pull away and separate. Sometimes, the ligaments supporting the uterus can stretch and cause pain when you move in a certain way.

Sometimes, staying in one position too long can trigger lighting crotch pain. You can alleviate this pain, then, by shifting your position. In general, remaining active and changing positions frequently can help prevent this pain from occurring. Other home treatments include using side-lying positions, placing a pillow between your legs while sleeping, wearing a pregnancy support belt, and doing Kegel exercises. A warm bath or prenatal massage can also be helpful. If it’s extremely problematic, this pain can also be treated using chiropractic adjustments or a pelvic block, an injection of pain medication into the affected region.

Sometimes, lightning crotch pain can be an early sign of labor. If you’re experiencing other symptoms, like period-like cramps, pelvic pressure, diarrhea, a burst of energy, or loss of the mucus plug, pay attention. If you start having consistent contractions, it’s time to call the doctor. Symptoms that mean you should call the doctor right away include vaginal bleeding, a temperature above 100 degrees, abdominal pain, a severe headache, sudden swelling of the face, hands, or feet, new problems with your vision, or a sudden rush of fluid, also known as your water breaking.

The good news is that for most women, this pain usually passes quickly. Even better, it will go away entirely once the baby is born. While it may be uncomfortable, it’s actually a normal part of a healthy pregnancy.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start families with healthy pregnancies. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

The Best and Worst Foods During Pregnancy

Eating healthily is always good for your health, but when you’re expecting a baby, what you eat becomes even more important. Your doctor will have sound advice for you on what to eat and what to avoid, so make sure you get clarification about your diet during your prenatal appointments. In the meantime, here are some guidelines regarding the best and worst foods to eat during pregnancy.

Certain vitamins and minerals are at the top of the list. Folic acid, also known as the B vitamin folate, calcium, iodine, iron, vitamin D and DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid are all important for a healthy pregnancy. You should absolutely be taking a prenatal vitamin- again, get recommendations from your doctor- but most of your nutrition should come from your food. Especially if you’re feeling nauseous, nutrient-dense foods are the best way to effectively get the nutrition you need. Here are some foods to incorporate in your pregnancy diet:

• Lean protein: Lean cuts of meat are full of protein and iron. The amino acids in protein are the building blocks of cells, and high-protein foods can help keep you from feeling hungry by stabilizing your blood sugar. Iron helps build your baby’s red blood cells while supporting yours. Not a meat eater? Lentils are an excellent vegetarian protein source, with 17 grams of protein and 7 milligrams of iron. They’re also rich in the folate, which is crucial for your baby’s developing brain and nervous system. Edamame is also excellent, with 18 grams of protein, 100 milligrams of calcium, 3.5 milligrams of iron, and 482 micrograms of folate. Eggs are a good source of protein, and they also provide a hefty serving of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium and may reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and low birth weight.
• Dairy: Dairy provides calcium, vital for your baby’s bones. Low-fat milk is good, but yogurt is even better. It’s got as much calcium as milk, along with protein, folate, and active cultures, which can help prevent both stomach upset and yeast infections. Choose plain yogurt with a drizzle of honey or fresh fruit, put yogurt in your smoothies, or layer it with granola and fruit for a parfait.
• Healthy fats: Cold water fish, avocado, and nuts all contain fats that support a healthy pregnancy. Fish like wild salmon have DHA omega-3s, essential for the development of your baby’s eyes and brain. Avocado has healthy monounsaturated fats, which help your body absorb vitamins, along with folate and B6, which is good for your baby’s brain and may help ease morning sickness. Nuts are packed with nutrients, including magnesium, zinc, potassium, vitamin E, protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Reach for walnuts to get omega-3 fatty acids, go with almonds for calcium, and peanuts for folate.
• Colorful fruits and vegetables: The beta-carotene in carrots is converted in the body to vitamin A. Red bell peppers provide both vitamin A and vitamin C, along with healthy fiber. Sweet potato is another powerhouse, with 400 percent of the vitamin A you need daily, and kale is a superfood with vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate, iron, calcium, and fiber. Can’t tolerate vegetables? You can get your vitamins A and C from mangoes, and your potassium from bananas. Bananas are a source of quick energy that’s easy to digest even if you’re queasy.
• Dried fruit: For a quick snack, you can’t beat dried figs, dates, prunes, and apricots. Not only will they satisfy your sweet tooth and provide an energy boost, but they’re full of nutrients like fiber, iron, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants.
• Whole grains: Oats and quinoa are particularly good for pregnancy, providing fiber and magnesium to help both mother and baby. Quinoa also contains 8 grams of protein and nearly 3 grams of iron, along with calcium, potassium, and zinc.

There are also some foods you should avoid when pregnant. Steer clear of high-mercury seafood, especially swordfish, shark, king mackerel, and tilefish. Don’t drink unpasteurized milk or juices or eat unpasteurized soft cheeses, because they can contain harmful bacteria. Refrigerated deli meats and deli salads can also contain bacteria, so don’t eat these unless they’re heated. Avoid raw or undercooked meat, fish, poultry, shellfish, or eggs, even in sauces or raw cookie dough, and don’t eat raw sprouts or unwashed produce. Don’t eat unripe papaya: it can trigger contractions. Avoid excess salt and sugar, processed foods, and trans fats, and limit your caffeine consumption to just one cup of drip coffee per day or less. Eating nutrient-dense whole foods is the best plan for your pregnancy diet.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start families with healthy pregnancies. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Why You Should Choose Dr. Green to Perform Your Vasectomy Reversal

A vasectomy is a fairly simple outpatient procedure, completed in 10 to 30 minutes. A vasectomy reversal, on the other hand, is more complicated. Not all vasectomy reversals are the same, and it’s important to find a surgeon who knows how to choose the right surgery for you and is skilled in this kind of delicate microsurgical procedure. That’s why we encourage you to choose Dr. Joshua Green, an expert in microsurgery and male infertility.

Dr. Green is from Philadelphia, but he has lived in Florida for over 25 years. Since moving to Sarasota in 2000, he’s been in private practice, in partnership with five other urologists. Their practice performs not only vasectomies and vasectomy reversals, but also many other procedures, covering nearly all aspects of adult urology. Dr. Green has two offices for patient convenience, one in Sarasota and another near Lakewood Ranch. He has hospital privileges at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, and Doctors’ Hospital of Sarasota.

If you’re looking for a surgeon with impeccable credentials, look no further. Dr. Green is a Board-Certified member of the American Urologic Association and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, as well as maintaining membership in the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the Society for Male Reproduction and Urology. He’s also served as Chairman of the Department of Surgery at Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

Having graduated with Honors from the prestigious Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Dr. Green completed further, rigorous training in General Surgery and Urology at the University of Miami, Jackson Memorial Hospital. After his urology training, he underwent further training in microsurgery and vasectomy reversal through the American Urologic Association in Houston.

Since completing his training, Dr. Green has performed hundreds of microscopic infertility procedures, with an impressive success rate. These surgeries require meticulous surgical techniques and high-powered operating microscopes. In a vasectomy reversal, the sutures used are also microscopic- about 1/3^rd the diameter of human hair- and are used to create a multilayered reconnection of the vas deferens. Dr Green performs vasectomy reversals in an accredited surgery center in Sarasota, with a Board-Certified anesthesiologist involved in every case to ensure total comfort during the surgery.

His vast experience has allowed Dr. Green to finely tune his skills, but this is not the only thing that sets him apart in the field of infertility microsurgery. The level of patient care offered by the Center for Vasectomy Reversal is outstanding. Each patient receives Dr. Green’s personal cell phone number, and he and his staff are available to patients seven days a week.

How to Put a Crying Baby to Sleep

It’s perfectly normal for babies to cry. After all, it’s the way they communicate! Babies cry because they’re hungry, thirsty, uncomfortable, overtired, excited, frightened, bored, or in need of comfort. For parents, a crying baby can feel stressful. However, with a little bit of patience you can learn to calm your crying baby and get him or her off to sleep.

• First, try to determine why the baby is crying. Make sure your baby is not hungry and doesn’t have a dirty diaper. If you think boredom may be the issue, try singing, humming, or going for a walk.
• Sometimes, the problem is colic. Colic typically starts around two weeks, hits its height at six weeks, and goes away by 16 weeks. It’s probably colic if there is unexplained crying for more than three hours a day, three or more days a week, for three weeks or longer.
• Know the Five S’s of Soothing. The world outside the womb can be overwhelming, but these five tactics can help soothe your baby.
  • Swaddling: Swaddling keeps babies’ limbs from twitching and gives them the snug sensation they had in the womb.
  • Side lying: Before babies are born, they spend much of their time lying on their sides. Try carrying your baby in a side lying position and using the football hold when nursing.
  • Shushing: “Shhh” sounds like the whooshing heard in the womb. You can make this noise yourself or try a white noise machine or app.
  • Swinging: Rocking, jiggling, swinging, and swaying can help a baby calm down.
  • Sucking: For a baby, sucking on a finger or pacifier can be very relaxing.
• Consider dietary modification. A change in formula may help. If you’re breastfeeding, consider eliminating some things from your diet, like dairy or spicy foods. It may be helpful to keep a journal, noting what your diet and your baby’s habits, in order to sleuth out any problems you may be able to easily fix.
• Implement a good sleep routine. Establish calming bedtime habits now, perhaps with a warm bath and soothing music before bed. During nighttime feedings, keep the room quiet and dark and don’t interact with your baby beyond feeding and changing. This will help your little one to learn that night is different from day.
• Give yourself a break. A baby who won’t stop crying can be overwhelming, so if you’re upset, put the baby in the crib and walk out for a few minutes to calm down. A walk outside with your baby can also sometimes help both of you to feel better. Don’t feel bad if you need to ask for help.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start families with healthy pregnancies. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Things You Should Consider Adding to Your Baby Shower Registry

When you’re expecting your first child, creating a baby shower registry can be complicated. Of course, there are items that you obviously need, like a car seat and a stroller, and fun things you’ll want, like nursery décor and cute toys. However, it can be hard to determine which baby registry items are necessary and which you’ll never use. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of useful items you should consider adding to your registry.

• For the nursery, you’ll need things to help baby sleep and help you keep the room tidy. Soft, fitted crib sheets and a waterproof mattress protector are essential, lightweight receiving blankets serve a wide variety of purposes, and sleep sacks will help keep your baby warm and swaddled. A baby monitor gives you peace of mind, and a white noise machine helps your little one stay asleep. You’ll also want baskets in the nursery, to hold laundry and toys, making cleanup easier.
• Be smart about baby clothes. Your tiny baby will quickly outgrow newborn clothes, so register for a variety of sizes and a range of seasons, along with baby-sized hangers. When possible, choose clothing with zippers instead of snaps. Trying to connect snaps on a squirming baby is like working on a puzzle that’s trying to get away.
• Register for mealtime. Put plenty of bottles, a bottle brush, and a drying rack on the list, and if you’re nursing, include a nursing pillow, nursing pads, and possibly a breast pump. You’ll also need plenty of burp cloths and bibs. It’s also worth registering for a highchair, baby utensils, and baby food storage containers, even though you won’t need them immediately.
• Bath items are important. A newborn to toddler tub is a great way to safely adapt to baby’s various stages. Baby soap, shampoo, and lotion will protect your little one’s delicate skin, as will lightweight washcloths and soft baby bath towels.
• Remember to include health and safety items. Diaper balm, an infant thermometer, gas relief drops, and a cool-mist humidifier are all items you’ll need at some point.
• Diapering is a big part of baby care. Register for diapers in various sizes, and request plenty of wipes. Don’t forget to include on your registry changing pads, a diaper pail, a diaper bag, and a wet bag to go in the diaper bag.

Of course, registries vary because each family operates a little differently. At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we love helping people start families with healthy pregnancies. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Everything You Need to Know About Erectile Dysfunction

It’s the subject of many late night commercials and it’s often used as a punchline, but erectile dysfunction (ED) is no laughing matter to the men who suffer from it. In fact, many of them don’t even want to talk about it, even with their doctor. Having the right information about ED is important, though, so we’d like to help expand your understanding of this common condition.

• How common is ED? It’s estimated that about 30 million men in the United States struggle with erectile dysfunction, and the prevalence of the condition increases with age. It can occur among younger men too, though, and about 25 percent of men seeking their first treatment for ED are under 40 years old. Lifestyle choices are a significant risk factor for ED among younger men. It’s estimates that the percentage of men with ED rises by 10 percent for each decade of life. In other words, about 60 percent of men in their sixties experience mild to moderate erectile dysfunction. It’s not inevitable, though. The healthier a man is, the lower his risk of sexual dysfunction.
• What, exactly, is erectile dysfunction? It’s the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. It used to be called impotence, but that term is not widely used today. Many men experience ED occasionally, but frequent erectile function can be a sign of health trouble. It can also be the result of emotional or relationship difficulties that may require professional assistance.
• What causes ED? Erectile dysfunction happens when there’s a problem with the erection process. An erection occurs because of increased blood flow into the penis, as excitement grows and the muscles in relax, allowing blood to flow through the penile arteries and into two chambers in the penis. As blood fills the chambers, the penis becomes rigid. Emotional and physical conditions can interfere with this process, including heart disease, diabetes, hormone imbalances, stress, and depression, among others. Alcohol, tobacco, and drug use can factor into ED, as can the use of certain medications.
• How is ED treated? There are many different ways to treat erectile dysfunction, from vacuum pumps, talk therapy, yoga, and acupuncture, to medications and even surgery. Improving diet, getting regular exercise, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and other lifestyle changes can help prevent ED. There are also different supplements that many men find helpful in managing erectile dysfunction. The most important thing to do if you’re experiencing ED is to speak to your doctor and find the treatment that’s right for you.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we provide treatment for many different sexual health issues, including erectile dysfunction. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility and sex lives through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

How to Prepare for When Your Partner Goes into Labor

Did you know that supporting a woman during childbirth is an important job? Research indicates that women who have support during labor are more likely to have a positive outcome. If your partner is pregnant, you should be prepared to take on a supportive role when the big day arrives, providing her with comfort, strength and encouragement. In return, you’ll get to share in one of the most meaningful and powerful moments of your life together. Here are some tips to make sure you’re ready for what’s in store.

• Learn as much as you can before the baby arrives. Attend a childbirth class: in-person classes are preferable, but if that’s not possible, take an online course and watch videos so that you’ll be prepared. Read as much as you can, so you’ll feel confident when your child makes an appearance. Make a birth plan and discuss labor strategies with your partner.
• Expect to hurry up and wait. During the last trimester, many women experience Braxton Hicks contractions. This is a belly-tightening sensation that can feel like labor, but it’s just the body’s way of preparing for childbirth. Even when labor does begin, there will probably be several hours before it’s time to go to the hospital. It’s important to understand the stages of labor.
  • The first stage consists of three phases.
    • Early labor: During this time, the woman’s water may break, triggering labor. Contractions may feel like persistent low back pain, and will become longer, stronger, and closer together as labor progresses. It’s often more comfortable to spend the earliest part of labor at home, timing contractions so you’ll know when to head to the hospital. Generally, that time comes when the contractions are about five minutes apart.
    • Active phase: By this time, you’ll be at the hospital, and the contractions will be more intense, spaced three to five minutes apart, lasting 40-60 seconds. Your partner will need your help with breathing exercises and relaxation techniques you learned in the childbirth class, and she may want to opt for pain relief. It can also be helpful for you to massage her temples or apply counterpressure to her back. On the other hand, she may not want to be touched. Every woman is different and it’s important to listen to your partner and find out what she needs.
    • Transition phase: This is an intense phase, during which contractions will last 60-90 seconds and be about two to three minutes apart.
  • Birth happens during the second stage. This stage can last minutes to hours and includes pushing and delivery.
  • The third stage begins after the baby is born. The placenta is delivered five to ten minutes later, and it’s common for the mom to feel shaky or get chills. Now is a good time for you as the partner to offer a warm blanket. It’s also a great opportunity to hold your newborn child and let your partner rest.
• Be prepared to be flexible. The strategies you have planned for labor may not pan out. The birth plan may have to change. You may feel faint or queasy, and labor may not go the way you expect. The important thing is that you’re bringing new life into the world and your partner has you as an advocate and a source of support.

If you’re ready to start a family, call the Center for Vasectomy Reversal. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.