What You Need to Know If You Have to Deliver a Baby

Now granted, most of us will never have to use this information, but if you ever find yourself in a situation where there is no doctor around but you are this information may become invaluable. I know you have heard the stories of the husband and wife on the way to the hospital and not make it there in time. At least if this ever happens to you you can be prepared. This is also useful information for the mother who may be by herself and not make it to the hospital.

First, and foremost, if you do find yourself in this situation try to stay calm. I know, yeah right! It is important though to keep your wits about you as much as possible for the health and safety of the baby and mother. If possible, call 911.

If possible go lie down on a warm clean area. If there is someone with you have them gather extra clean towels and blankets. These will come in handy during the birth and for the baby after giving birth. If you do not have any towels or blankets handy use any thing that is relatively soft. This could be a rug or clothing.

Next lie down on your left side with a pillow under your left hip. This takes pressure off. One area of concern of having an emergency birth at home (or elsewhere) is hypothermia for the baby. It is very important that once the baby is born that they be kept warm and dry.

The next thing that you need to do is relax and breathe. According to Ehow.com when the baby is ready to make his arrival be sure that the cord is not wrapped around the baby's neck. If it is, gently slip it over the baby's head. Next either you are the person that is with you, needs to place their hands on the baby's head to guide them in the delivery. Have a towel or blanket ready to "catch" the baby.

Once baby is born be sure to quickly dry the baby off and wrap the baby in a blanket to prevent hypothermia. Drying off the baby will usually cause the baby to cry, which is a good thing. If the baby is purple or gray all over then he may be experiencing a breathing problem. If this is the case try softly blowing in the baby's face to see if they start breathing. If this does not work you need to then put your mouth over the baby's nose and mouth and give them a gentle puff of air.

Place the baby on your belly and try to stay warm while waiting for help. It is okay to try to start immediately breastfeeding. Once the baby is born the placenta will come next. This should happen naturally in about 10 of 15 minutes. You do not have to worry about cutting the umbilical cord right now. This can be done at the hospital. At this stage, the most important thing is try to relax and keep you and your baby warm.

Hopefully you will never have to use this information, but in the unlikely case that you do you will be better prepared for it.

Sources:

http://www.eHow.com