Ms. Delivia dished about about what she and her colleagues talk about, some pet peeves, and what women should know before walking in the labor and delivery ward in their hospital. For some insider tips, read on. Bathe: When your labor is a surprise, of course it’s expected that you drop everything and just show up to the hospital. But, it’s really gross when people show up to a schedule induction or c-section without bathing. This happens more often than you would think and they all can tell. Grooming is essential: Trim downstairs ladies. They like it. There are some people who are overgrown and it’s just not as clean of an experience for all involved. Be strong: When women ask for an epidural after they are only one centimeter dilated, the nurses think you are wimpy. They are nice about it, but secretly they are rolling their eyes. (P.S. I asked for an epidural super early the first time I gave birth and I plan to do it again. They can roll their eyes all they want.) Be educated. Would you run a marathon without training? No. Labor is like running one, so prepare. Laborie hates it when people have a plan in their mind about how they want things to go, but it’s unrealistic. It makes everyone’s experience more difficult. She may sound harsh, but at least she was being honest. If you have any questions for Laborie Delivia, she assured me she’s ready and willing to answer them, so let me know in the comments and I’ll ask her. Image via SaraMcD/Flickr
