What Is Delayed Cord Clamping?
Delayed cord clamping allows blood to continue flowing from the placenta to the baby for a short time after birth, which can provide important benefits during the baby’s transition to life outside the womb. Key Takeaways About Delayed Cord Clamping If you have been preparing for your baby’s birth, you may have heard your midwife delayed cord clamping. You may also have questions about what it actually means, how long you wait, and whether it is safe. Waiting briefly to clamp the cord is a simple practice that gives your baby additional time to receive blood from the placenta after birth. It is now recommended by several major medical organizations for most healthy newborns, although the exact timing can depend on the circumstances of the birth. What Happens During Delayed Cord Clamping? After your baby is born, blood can continue moving between the placenta and your baby through the umbilical cord. Waiting before clamping the cord allows this process, known as placental transfusion, to continue. Instead of clamping the cord immediately, the healthcare team waits for a period of time before placing the clamps and cutting the cord. During that time, your baby can often be placed directly on your chest for skin-to-skin contact while the cord remains attached. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends delayed cord clamping for at least 30 to 60 seconds after birth for most vigorous term and preterm babies. Why Is Delayed Cord Clamping Beneficial? The biggest benefit is that your baby receives additional blood from the placenta during the first moments after birth. This extra blood can increase the baby’s blood volume and hemoglobin levels. It also provides additional iron, which can help support the baby’s iron stores during the first several months of life. For premature babies, the benefits can be particularly important. Research has associated delayed cord clamping in preterm infants with better circulation after birth, a reduced need for blood transfusions, and lower rates of certain serious complications. The World Health Organization recommends delaying cord clamping for at least one minute after birth for improved maternal and newborn health outcomes. How Long Is the Cord Left Unclamped? There is not one universal amount of time that applies to every birth. ACOG recommends at least 30 to 60 seconds for most vigorous term and preterm infants. The World Health Organization recommends waiting at least one minute, and some professional organizations support waiting longer when circumstances allow. Your healthcare provider may consider factors such as your baby’s condition, your health, the condition of the placenta and umbilical cord, and whether either of you needs immediate medical attention. In other words, delaying cord clamping is not necessarily about watching a clock. The care team considers what is safest for both mother and baby. Can You Have Skin-to-Skin Contact During Delayed Cord Clamping? Often, yes. Delayed cord clamping does not necessarily mean your baby has to be taken away from you while you wait. ACOG notes that immediate skin-to-skin contact can be appropriate while the cord remains attached. For many families, this means the first moments after birth can include your baby resting on your chest while the placenta continues providing blood through the umbilical cord. Does Delayed Cord Clamping Affect the Mother? Delayed cord clamping is primarily intended to benefit the newborn, but research has also looked at whether waiting to clamp the cord affects the mother. Current evidence does not show that delayed cord clamping increases the risk of postpartum hemorrhage or significantly increases blood loss during delivery. However, there are situations in which the mother’s health takes priority and immediate cord clamping may be necessary. For example, if there is significant maternal bleeding or maternal instability, the healthcare team may need to act quickly. Does Delayed Cord Clamping Increase the Risk of Jaundice? There is a small increase in the likelihood of jaundice requiring phototherapy among term infants who have delayed cord clamping. This does not mean delayed cord clamping should be avoided. Instead, newborns should be monitored for jaundice as part of routine newborn care. Your baby’s healthcare team can check for signs of jaundice and provide treatment if necessary. Are There Situations When Delayed Cord Clamping Is Not Recommended? Delaying cord clamping is recommended for most babies, but it is not appropriate in every situation. Immediate clamping may be necessary if: The decision should be based on the health of both mother and baby rather than simply following a predetermined birth plan. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists’ updated 2026 guidance also emphasizes that clinical judgment is important and that immediate clamping may sometimes be necessary to protect the health of the mother or baby. What About Delayed Cord Clamping With a C-Section? Delayed cord clamping can also be performed during some cesarean births. The logistics are different because of the surgical setting, but the baby may be positioned on the mother’s abdomen or held close to the level of the placenta while the cord remains attached. Whether it is possible depends on the circumstances of the birth and the health of the mother and baby. If delayed cord clamping is important to you, talk with your provider before delivery so you understand how your hospital or birth team handles it during cesarean births. What About Premature Babies? Delayed cord clamping can be especially valuable for premature babies. Preterm infants are more vulnerable to problems with circulation, anemia, and other complications after birth. Research has found several benefits associated with delayed cord clamping in preterm infants, including improved transitional circulation and a reduced need for blood transfusions. Because premature babies may also need immediate medical support, the neonatal and obstetric teams must balance the benefits of waiting with the baby’s condition at birth. Can Delayed Cord Clamping Be Part of a Birth Plan? Absolutely. If you would like delayed cord clamping, discuss it with your midwife or OB/GYN before labor. You can include your preference in your birth plan and ask how the practice handles
Can You Have an Epidural With a Midwife?
Many women who choose midwifery care also choose epidurals, and the two are not mutually exclusive. One of the most common misconceptions about midwives is that they only support unmedicated or “natural” births. In reality, many certified nurse midwives work in hospitals and care for patients who choose a variety of pain management options, including epidurals. If you are considering midwifery care but know you may want pain relief during labor, you may be relieved to learn that choosing a midwife does not mean giving up access to medical pain management. What Is an Epidural? An epidural is a form of pain relief commonly used during labor and delivery. It involves administering medication through a small catheter placed in the lower back by an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist. The medication helps reduce pain while allowing many women to remain awake, alert, and actively involved in the birth of their baby. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) answers many questions about pain relief during delivery. Epidurals are one of the most effective forms of labor pain management available. Do Midwives Support Epidurals? Yes. Midwives support informed decision-making, which means helping patients understand their options and choose what feels right for them. A midwife’s goal is not to steer someone toward or away from pain medication. Instead, midwives provide education, answer questions, and support the choices that align with a patient’s needs and birth preferences. Some women enter labor planning to use an epidural. Others hope to avoid medication but decide they would like pain relief during labor. Both experiences are common, and both are supported in many midwifery practices. How Does an Epidural Work in a Midwife-Led Birth? In hospital settings, certified nurse midwives work as part of a larger healthcare team. If a laboring patient requests an epidural, the midwife typically coordinates with: Once the epidural is placed, the midwife continues monitoring labor, supporting the patient, and managing the birth process. The American College of Nurse-Midwives explains the role of certified nurse midwives and collaborative maternity care:https://www.midwife.org Can You Change Your Mind During Labor? Absolutely. Many women create birth plans before labor begins, but labor can be unpredictable. What feels right during pregnancy may feel different in the moment. Some women who initially planned an unmedicated birth decide to request an epidural. Others who expected to use pain medication discover they are comfortable without it. One of the benefits of relationship-based midwifery care is having a provider who supports you as your needs evolve throughout labor. What Other Pain Relief Options Do Midwives Offer? Midwives are often skilled in a variety of comfort measures that can be used before or alongside an epidural. These may include: The goal is to help patients feel as comfortable and supported as possible throughout labor. Does Choosing an Epidural Change Your Birth Experience? Every labor experience is unique. For some women, an epidural allows them to rest, conserve energy, and feel more present during labor. For others, they prefer to experience labor without medication. There is no universally “right” choice. The best birth experience is often the one where a patient feels informed, respected, and supported in her decisions. Are Epidurals Safe? Epidurals have been used for decades and are generally considered safe for most laboring patients. Like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and benefits. Your healthcare provider and anesthesia team can discuss these with you and help determine whether an epidural is appropriate for your situation. Midwifery Care Is About Choice At its core, midwifery care focuses on informed consent, shared decision-making, and personalized support. Choosing a midwife does not mean committing to an unmedicated birth. It means partnering with a healthcare professional who will help you understand your options and support your choices throughout pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum recovery. Whether your birth plan includes an epidural, other pain relief methods, or no medication at all, many midwives are committed to helping you have a safe and positive birth experience. Trusted Resources for Expectant Parents If you would like to learn more about labor pain management and midwifery care, these resources offer evidence-based information: Key Takeaways Frequently Asked Questions Do all midwives allow epidurals? Midwives who practice in hospitals commonly care for patients who choose epidurals. Availability may vary depending on the birth setting. Can I choose a midwife if I already know I want an epidural? Yes. Many women choose midwives specifically because they appreciate the personalized care while still planning to use medical pain relief. Who administers the epidural? An epidural is typically administered by an anesthesiologist or another qualified anesthesia provider, not by the midwife. Can I request an epidural after labor starts? Yes. Many women decide whether to use an epidural during labor rather than making a final decision ahead of time. Do midwives only support natural birth? No. Modern midwifery care supports a wide range of birth preferences, including epidurals, inductions, and hospital births. Will my midwife stay involved if I get an epidural? In most hospital-based practices, yes. Your midwife continues monitoring labor, providing support, and managing your care throughout the birth process. ••• This information is not intended to serve as medical advice. For specific questions or concerns about midwifery and epidurals, we recommend you consult with one of our women’s health care specialists. We’re here to help in Tampa, Wesley Chapel and St.Petersburg! 813-258-3309
Signs That Labor Is Starting
As your due date approaches, it is natural to wonder whether every cramp, twinge, or trip to the bathroom means labor is beginning. While every pregnancy is different, there are several common signs that your body may be preparing for labor and delivery. Knowing what to watch for can help you feel more confident and prepared as you get closer to meeting your baby. Your Baby Drops Lower One of the earliest signs that labor may be approaching is when your baby moves lower into your pelvis. This is often called “lightening” because you may feel like the pressure on your lungs has eased, making it easier to breathe. At the same time, you may notice: For first-time mothers, this may happen weeks before labor begins. For women who have given birth before, it may happen much closer to labor. You Notice More Braxton Hicks Contractions Braxton Hicks contractions are often called practice contractions. As labor approaches, they may become stronger, more frequent, and more noticeable. Unlike true labor contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions typically: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) provides helpful guidance on distinguishing false labor from true labor. Your Cervix Begins to Change Before labor begins, the cervix starts preparing for delivery through a process called effacement and dilation. Effacement means the cervix becomes thinner, while dilation refers to the opening of the cervix. These changes can happen gradually over days or even weeks before active labor begins. Your healthcare provider may check for cervical changes during late pregnancy visits, although cervical dilation alone does not always predict when labor will start. You Lose Your Mucus Plug The mucus plug helps seal and protect the cervix during pregnancy. As the cervix begins to soften and open, the mucus plug may be released. It may appear: This is sometimes called a “bloody show.” Losing the mucus plug can mean labor is approaching, but it does not necessarily mean labor will begin immediately. Some women go into labor within hours, while others may still have days or weeks remaining. Your Water Breaks One of the most well-known signs of labor is when the amniotic sac ruptures, commonly referred to as your water breaking. Despite what movies often portray, this is not always a dramatic gush of fluid. For many women, it may feel like a slow trickle or constant leaking. If you believe your water has broken, contact your healthcare provider promptly. The March of Dimes recommends notifying your provider even if contractions have not yet started. You Experience Diarrhea or Digestive Changes Hormonal changes before labor can affect the digestive system. Some women notice: While not everyone experiences these symptoms, they can be part of the body’s natural preparation for labor. Nesting Energy Kicks In Many expectant mothers report a sudden burst of energy shortly before labor begins. This phenomenon is often called nesting. You may find yourself wanting to: While nesting can occur at any point in pregnancy, some women notice a stronger urge in the days leading up to labor. True Labor Contractions Begin The clearest sign that labor is starting is the onset of regular contractions that continue to intensify. True labor contractions: Many providers recommend following the 5-1-1 rule: Ask your healthcare provider whether they recommend a different guideline based on your individual pregnancy. When Should You Call Your Provider? Contact your healthcare provider if: The CDC’s Hear Her campaign also encourages pregnant and postpartum women to seek medical attention if something feels unusual or concerning. Every Labor Story Is Different One of the most important things to remember is that labor does not look exactly the same for everyone. Some women experience every classic sign, while others move into labor with very little warning. Trust your instincts, stay in communication with your healthcare provider, and remember that no question is too small when it comes to the health and safety of you and your baby. Key Takeaways Frequently Asked Questions How do I know if labor is really starting? True labor contractions become stronger, longer, and closer together over time. They typically continue regardless of movement, hydration, or rest. Can you be in labor without your water breaking? Yes. Many women begin labor with contractions before their water breaks. How long after losing the mucus plug does labor start? There is no set timeline. Labor may begin within hours, days, or even weeks after losing the mucus plug. Is diarrhea a sign that labor is near? It can be. Some women experience digestive changes due to hormonal shifts before labor begins. When should I go to the hospital? Follow your provider’s instructions. Many recommend coming in when contractions follow the 5-1-1 rule, but individual recommendations may vary. What if I am unsure whether I am in labor? Call your healthcare provider. They can help you determine whether your symptoms suggest labor and advise you on the next steps. ••• This is intended to be general guidance. If you are concerned that you may be starting labor, please call your provider or your Women’s Health Care midwife. 813-258-3309
Are Midwives Only for Natural Birth?
One of the biggest misconceptions about midwives is that they only support unmedicated or “natural” birth. While many midwives are experienced in helping women through labor without medication, that is only part of what they do. Modern midwifery care is about supporting women through pregnancy, birth, postpartum recovery, and gynecologic care while respecting each patient’s individual preferences and medical needs. For some women, that means an unmedicated birth. For others, it means an epidural, induction, or even a cesarean delivery. Midwives are there to provide guidance, education, and safe care regardless of the type of birth a patient chooses. Midwives Support Many Types of Birth Experiences Midwives care for women with a wide range of birth plans and comfort levels. Some patients want minimal intervention, while others know from the beginning that they want pain medication during labor. A midwife’s role is not to judge those choices. Instead, midwives help patients understand their options and make informed decisions. Many certified nurse midwives practice in hospitals where patients have access to: The American College of Nurse-Midwives explains that certified nurse midwives are trained healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive maternity and gynecologic care. Can You Get an Epidural With a Midwife? Yes. Many women who choose midwives also choose epidurals. In hospital settings, certified nurse midwives work alongside anesthesiologists, nurses, and obstetricians. If a patient decides she wants pain relief during labor, the midwife can help coordinate that care. Some women begin labor hoping to avoid medication and later decide they want an epidural. Others plan for one from the start. Both choices are valid. Midwifery care is meant to support the patient, not pressure her into a specific birth experience. Midwives Work in Hospitals Too Another common myth is that midwives only attend home births or birth center deliveries. In reality, many midwives practice in hospitals and deliver babies in traditional labor and delivery units. Hospital-based midwives can provide a blend of personalized support and access to medical resources if complications arise. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, collaborative care between midwives and physicians can help provide safe and effective maternity care for many patients. What Happens If Complications Arise? Midwives are trained to recognize when additional medical support is needed. If labor becomes complicated or a cesarean delivery becomes necessary, midwives work closely with obstetricians and hospital teams. Patient safety is always the priority. Depending on the practice and hospital, the midwife may remain involved throughout labor, surgery preparation, and postpartum care even if another physician performs the cesarean delivery. Midwifery Care Is About Personalized Care The heart of midwifery care is not “natural birth.” It is relationship-based care and patient-centered decision making. Midwives often spend more time with patients during appointments discussing: Many women appreciate having a provider who listens carefully and treats them like an active participant in their healthcare. Midwives Provide More Than Pregnancy Care Certified nurse midwives do much more than deliver babies. Many provide full women’s healthcare services, including: The World Health Organization has recognized the important role midwives play in improving maternal and newborn health worldwide. Why Some Women Prefer Midwives Women choose midwives for many different reasons, including: For some patients, the experience feels less rushed and more relationship-driven. Choosing the Right Provider for You Every pregnancy and every patient is different. Some women feel most comfortable with an obstetrician, while others prefer midwifery care. Some practices even combine both approaches. The most important thing is finding a provider who makes you feel informed, respected, and supported. Key Takeaways Frequently Asked Questions Do midwives only deliver babies without pain medication? No. Many patients under midwife care choose epidurals or other forms of pain relief during labor. Can midwives work in hospitals? Yes. Many certified nurse midwives practice in hospitals and deliver babies in labor and delivery units. What happens if I need a C-section? If a cesarean delivery becomes necessary, midwives work with obstetricians and hospital staff to ensure safe care. Can midwives induce labor? Depending on the practice setting and hospital privileges, many midwives can manage or participate in labor inductions. Are midwives qualified medical professionals? Yes. Certified nurse midwives are licensed healthcare providers with advanced medical training in pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and gynecologic care. Can I switch from an OB/GYN to a midwife during pregnancy? In many cases, yes. Patients often transfer care during pregnancy if they decide a midwifery approach better fits their goals and needs. ••• This information is not intended to serve as medical advice. For specific questions or concerns about midwifery or natural births, we recommend you consult with one of our women’s health care specialists. We’re here to help in Tampa, Wesley Chapel and St.Petersburg! 813-258-3309
Why Many Women Choose Midwives for Their Second Baby
For many mothers, the first birth experience teaches them a lot about what matters most during pregnancy and labor. By the time a second baby comes along, many women have a clearer picture of the kind of care they want. That is one reason why more mothers are choosing midwives for their second pregnancy. Midwives provide comprehensive prenatal, birth, and postpartum care, often with a strong focus on education, shared decision making, and personal support. For women who want a different experience the second time around, midwifery care can feel like a better fit. Here are some of the most common reasons mothers choose a midwife for their second baby. A Desire for More Personalized Care Many women say their first pregnancy felt rushed. Short appointments and limited time to ask questions can leave patients feeling like just another chart on the schedule. Midwives are known for spending more time with their patients. Prenatal visits are often longer, allowing time to talk about nutrition, emotional well-being, birth preferences, and concerns. This approach can help women feel heard and supported. For mothers who already understand the basics of pregnancy, these conversations often focus on what matters most to them personally. Research from the American College of Nurse-Midwives highlights that midwifery care often emphasizes relationship-based care and shared decision making. A Different Birth Experience Some women turn to midwives after a first birth that involved more interventions than expected. Others simply want a more hands-on support system during labor. Midwives are trained to manage normal pregnancies and births while closely monitoring mother and baby. Their approach often prioritizes patience, movement during labor, and non-medication comfort techniques. That does not mean medical options are off the table. Many midwives practice in hospitals and work alongside physicians if complications arise. According to research summarized by the World Health Organization, midwife-led care has been associated with lower rates of certain interventions while maintaining strong safety outcomes for healthy pregnancies. More Confidence the Second Time Around First-time mothers often enter pregnancy with a lot of unknowns. By the time a second baby is on the way, many women feel more confident in their bodies and their instincts. This confidence can make the midwifery model of care especially appealing. Midwives often encourage mothers to trust their bodies and participate actively in decisions about their care. For women who want a collaborative approach rather than a highly structured medical experience, midwifery care can feel empowering. Support for Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) Another common reason women choose midwives for a second pregnancy is interest in vaginal birth after a previous cesarean. Many midwives are experienced in supporting women who hope for a vaginal birth after cesarean when it is medically appropriate. They often spend time discussing risks, benefits, and individual circumstances so patients can make informed decisions. Guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists support offering VBAC as a safe option for many women with a prior cesarean delivery. A Focus on the Whole Person Midwives often take a holistic view of health. That means looking beyond physical symptoms and considering emotional well-being, family support, stress levels, and lifestyle. For mothers balancing work, parenting, and pregnancy, this approach can feel especially valuable. Instead of focusing only on medical checklists, appointments often include conversations about sleep, nutrition, mental health, and preparation for life with two children. Continuity of Care Many women appreciate seeing the same provider throughout pregnancy and birth. Continuity of care can help build trust and make the experience feel more personal. Knowing the provider who will be present during labor can ease anxiety and help mothers feel more comfortable when the big day arrives. A Balanced Approach to Birth Choosing a midwife does not mean rejecting medical care. Many midwives practice in hospitals and work closely with obstetricians when needed. The goal is to support normal pregnancy and birth while ensuring quick access to medical care if complications arise. For many families, this balance of personal attention and medical collaboration offers the best of both worlds. Key Takeaways Frequently Asked Questions Are midwives only for natural births? No. While many midwives support natural birth techniques, patients can still choose pain relief options such as epidurals in hospital settings. Is midwife care safe for second pregnancies? For healthy pregnancies, research shows midwife-led care has strong safety outcomes. Midwives are trained to monitor for complications and refer to physicians when necessary. Can midwives provide regular gynecologic care too? Yes. Certified nurse midwives provide a wide range of women’s healthcare services including annual exams, Pap smears, contraception counseling, and menopause care. Can you switch to a midwife for your second pregnancy? In many cases, yes. Women often switch providers between pregnancies if they want a different approach to prenatal care or labor support. Do midwives work in hospitals? Many do. Certified nurse midwives frequently practice in hospitals, birth centers, and medical clinics, depending on the practice setting. If you are considering your options for a second pregnancy, talking with a midwife can help you learn whether their approach aligns with your goals for birth and women’s healthcare. ••• This information is not intended to serve as medical advice. For specific questions or concerns about midwifery, we recommend you consult with one of our women’s health care specialists. 813-258-3309
The Benefits of Using a Midwife
Choosing the right healthcare provider for pregnancy and childbirth is one of the most important decisions expectant parents make. For many, midwives offer a personalized and empowering approach to prenatal, labor, and postpartum care. Here’s an in-depth look at the benefits of using a midwife. 1. Personalized Care Midwives are known for providing individualized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs and preferences. They take the time to understand your medical history, birthing plan, and emotional concerns, ensuring a supportive and respectful experience. This personalized approach often leads to greater satisfaction with the overall birthing process. 2. Focus on Natural Birth Midwives specialize in supporting natural, unmedicated births. They offer techniques such as breathing exercises, massage, and positioning to help manage labor pain without medical interventions. For those who prefer a natural approach, midwives are invaluable partners in achieving that goal. 3. Lower Intervention Rates Research shows that midwife-led births often result in fewer medical interventions, such as inductions, episiotomies, and cesarean sections. By prioritizing natural processes and avoiding unnecessary procedures, midwives help promote safer outcomes for both mother and baby. 4. Holistic Approach to Care Midwives adopt a holistic view of pregnancy and childbirth, addressing physical, emotional, and social aspects of care. They often incorporate alternative therapies, such as aromatherapy or acupuncture, and provide guidance on nutrition, exercise, and mental health, ensuring well-rounded support. 5. Continuity of Care One of the unique aspects of midwifery care is the continuity it provides. Midwives often build long-term relationships with their patients, offering consistent care throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. This continuity fosters trust and confidence, contributing to a more positive birthing experience. 6. Support for Informed Decision-Making Midwives prioritize patient education, empowering individuals to make informed choices about their care. They provide evidence-based information on birthing options, interventions, and newborn care, ensuring you feel confident and in control throughout the process. 7. Options for Birth Settings Midwives support births in various settings, including hospitals, birthing centers, and homes. This flexibility allows you to choose an environment that feels safest and most comfortable for you. Whether you prefer the familiarity of your home or the resources of a hospital, midwives can adapt to your needs. 8. Emphasis on Family-Centered Care Midwives often involve partners, family members, and other support persons in the birthing process. This inclusive approach fosters a sense of connection and shared experience, helping to create lasting memories for everyone involved. 9. Postpartum Support The care provided by midwives extends well beyond delivery. They assist with breastfeeding, newborn care, and maternal recovery, offering guidance and emotional support during the critical postpartum period. This continuity ensures a smooth transition into parenthood. 10. Cost-Effective Care For many, midwifery services are more affordable than traditional obstetric care, particularly for those planning a home or birthing center delivery. Additionally, many insurance plans cover midwife-led care, making it an accessible option for a wide range of families. Using a midwife offers numerous benefits, from personalized and holistic care to lower intervention rates and postpartum support. Whether you’re seeking a natural birth or a more hands-on approach to pregnancy and delivery, midwives provide compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers and supports families during one of life’s most transformative experiences. If you’re considering using a midwife, take time to research and meet with the highly experienced providers at Women’s Health Care of Tampa Bay to find the one that best aligns with your needs and values. Their expertise and dedication can make all the difference in creating a positive and memorable birth experience. (813) 258-3309