Course Login

Labor & Delivery 101 for First-Time Moms | Baby Settler

by | Sep 29, 2025 | Podcast, Pregnancy

returning to work

Labor & Delivery 101: What Every First-Time Mom Should Know

(An Early-Momming Podcast Recap with Dr. Kate White)

Why Labor Prep Matters

Becoming a mom for the first time is exciting, overwhelming, and full of unknowns. When do you actually go to the hospital? Do you really need to rush if your water breaks? What’s the deal with delayed cord clamping? And how long does it really take to get an epidural?

In a recent episode of the Early-Momming Podcast, Hillary sat down with Dr. Kate White — OB/GYN, fellow podcaster, and mom of two — to break down the truth about labor and delivery for first-time moms.

This guide expands on that conversation and gives you the clarity you need as you prepare for your big day.

When Should You Go to the Hospital in Labor?

Most first-time moms have heard of the 5-1-1 rule: contractions every five minutes, lasting one minute, for at least one hour. It’s a great guideline, but Dr. White reminds us that every labor looks a little different.

What to look for:

  • Contractions that feel organized instead of random

  • Pressure or wraparound sensations in your back and pelvis

  • Consistency for at least an hour

When to go immediately:

  • Your water breaks and the fluid is green or brown (a sign of meconium)

  • Heavy bleeding

  • Noticeably less baby movement

  • Fever or signs of infection

✨ Pro tip: Always check in with your provider—they know your unique pregnancy and may have specific guidelines for you.

Epidurals: What No One Tells You

An epidural is one of the most common forms of pain relief during labor. But many moms don’t realize it’s not instant.

From the moment you request an epidural, it can take 30–45 minutes before you feel relief.

Here’s why:

  • You’ll usually need IV fluids first.

  • The anesthesiologist may be with another patient.

  • The medication itself takes time to kick in.

👉 Tip: If you think you might want an epidural, ask before you hit your breaking point. It’s better to plan ahead than to wait until the most intense part of labor.

Delayed Cord Clamping: How Long Is Long Enough?

You’ve probably heard of delayed cord clamping—but what does it actually mean?

Dr. White explains that delayed clamping usually means waiting 30–60 seconds after birth, until the cord stops pulsing. This allows extra blood to flow from the placenta to your baby, boosting iron levels and supporting early development.

Myth busted: You don’t have to wait 10–15 minutes. Once the cord has stopped pulsing, it’s safe to clamp and cut.

Induction: More Than Just Pitocin

When moms hear the word “induction,” they often think it’s all about Pitocin. But induction is actually a multi-step process that may include:

  • Cervical ripening agents (like Misoprostol or Cervidil)

  • Mechanical methods (like a Foley balloon or Dilapan rods)

  • Membrane sweeping

  • Pitocin to strengthen and regulate contractions once your cervix is ready

✨ Ask your provider: “What’s your induction plan? Do you start with ripening before Pitocin?”

Eating and Moving During Labor

Hospital policies vary, but many moms are surprised to learn that:

  • Light foods and clear fluids are often safe in early labor.

  • Movement (walking, showering, birthing ball) can help labor progress.

  • Even with an epidural, some position changes are possible with support.

Hospital Tour Checklist for First-Time Moms

When you tour your hospital or birth center, don’t just look at the rooms—ask questions.

Checklist:

  • Is an anesthesiologist available 24/7?

  • What pain management options are offered (nitrous oxide, TENS units, showers, squat bars)?

  • How are inductions typically started?

  • Is mobile monitoring available so I can move freely?

  • What’s the standard policy on delayed cord clamping?

  • Am I allowed to eat or drink during early labor?

  • If my OB isn’t on call, who delivers my baby?

The more you know ahead of time, the calmer you’ll feel when labor begins.

What Really Matters for a Positive Labor Experience

Labor is unpredictable, but knowledge is power. The biggest takeaways from Dr. White’s advice:

  • Know your options. Ask questions before the big day.

  • Understand the timeline. Epidurals and inductions take planning.

  • Stay flexible. Your birth may not go exactly as planned—and that’s okay.

  • Prioritize safety. A healthy mom and baby are always the goal.

FAQs About Labor and Delivery

Q1: When should a first-time mom go to the hospital in labor?
Most providers recommend the 5-1-1 rule. Go sooner if your water breaks with colored fluid, you have heavy bleeding, fever, or decreased baby movement.

Q2: How long does it take for an epidural to work?
From request to relief, expect 30–45 minutes.

Q3: What is delayed cord clamping and why is it important?
Waiting 30–60 seconds allows extra blood and iron to transfer from the placenta to your baby.

Why I Teach This

As a nurse, lactation consultant, and mom of four, I’ve seen time and again that when moms have clarity around labor, feeding, and sleep, their whole family thrives.

That’s why I created Babies Made Simple — not just to share “how-to’s” about labor or newborn care, but to help you understand how feeding and sleep foundations work together once baby arrives.

Through my on-demand course + PDF guide, book, and personalized 1:1 consults, I help moms prepare for birth, recover confidently, and set up feeding and sleep routines that last.

Your Next Step

If you want to take what you’ve learned here and go deeper, start here:

✨ Whether you choose a course, a book, or a consult, my goal is the same: to simplify early motherhood and equip you with the confidence to thrive.

About Hillary Sadler, RN, MSN, IBCLC

Hillary Sadler is a labor & delivery nurse, feeding specialist, and mom of four. She’s the founder of Baby Settler and the author of Babies Made Simple, a modern guide to understanding the connection between feeding and sleep. Through her book, on-demand course, and 1:1 consults, Hillary helps parents gain confidence, simplify routines, and finally get the rest they deserve.

In your corner,
Hillary

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns about your or your baby’s health.

[trustindex no-registration=google]