Common Sources of Stress in Labor


Managing Stress in Labor & Cesarean Birth

In this class, Dr. Sterling walks you through the most common stress points during both vaginal and cesarean births—and gives you strategies to stay calm and grounded through it all.

Topics include:

  • When to go to the hospital (and why rules don’t always apply)

  • Tips for managing early labor at home

  • How to mentally prepare for the car ride, triage, and hospital admission

  • Navigating unexpected changes—like heart rate drops or unplanned cesareans

  • What to expect immediately after birth, including uterine massage and repairs

  • Cesarean-specific stressors: pre-op nerves, the OR experience, and early bonding challenges

Above all, you’ll be reminded that it’s okay to be scared—and that you deserve compassionate care. Dr. Sterling shares when and how to speak up to get the emotional support you need.