Labor, Delivery and Beyond

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When You and Your Baby are Ready

You're at the center of your birthing experience and
CHA is here to support you.

At CHA, you will find:

One of the lowest C-section rates in MA

Our skilled providers do everything they can to reduce your risk of needing a cesarean. It shows because we have one of the lowest C-section rates in Massachusetts. However, sometimes C-sections are the safest option. If you need a C-section, our obstetricians are expertly trained and experienced in this surgical procedure and you will be well cared for by the entire team.

VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean)

Giving birth vaginally has benefits for you and your baby – less pain, lower risk of infection, and natural immunities for your child. If you had a previous C-section, you may be able to deliver vaginally. Your provider will help you understand all of your options.

Pain relief during delivery

There are many ways you can reduce your pain during delivery. The more you know, the more relaxed you will be during labor. Here are some options that are available to you:

Massage
Breathing
Movement – walking, changing positions
Meditation
Water therapy – showers and baths
Hot packs
Medication and other forms of anesthesia

Specialty Care

If you need specialty care during your pregnancy, you are in good hands. You always have access to our expert CHA obstetrician-gynecologist doctors as well as specialists from our partner hospitals: Tufts Medical Center (TMC) and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC). This ensures you and your baby will always receive the highest quality care.

Maternal Fetal Medicine: This service is for people with a high-risk pregnancy. It lets us look at the health of the pregnant person and child at the same time to reduce risk factors. You can also access on-site genetic counseling and prenatal testing. Speak with your provider for more information.

Neonatologists: These doctors care for high-risk babies who are born early, have low birth weights, are twins or triplets or have other health problems.

Special Training for Emergencies

Most deliveries at CHA are wonderful experiences for new parents and their families. If something changes during or after your delivery, you’ll be with staff who are specially trained to identify any problems and intervene when needed. We take your safety seriously and do drills to prepare for the unexpected.

The intimacy of holding your baby against your body for the first time, looking into their eyes and catching every second of the beginning of their lives... we're here to help give you that precious moment. Watch this video to find out more about having your baby at CHA.

Call 617-665-2800 today!

CHA Doula Program - Bringing a world of wisdom to your birth

A CHA Doula helping a mother prepare for their birth in the hospital

A doula is trained to encourage, comfort, and support you and your family during labor and after birth. Doulas offer physical, emotional, social and educational support. They know you, facilitate conversation with medical care givers, and help you have the birth experience you want. While doulas do not provide medical care, they use the latest evidence-based practices and cultural wisdom to work alongside CHA midwives, nurses and doctors as a trusted part of the healthcare team.

People with doulas often have shorter labors and less need for medical interventions. Doula support increases successful breastfeeding and a smoother transition to parenthood. CHA pregnant patients facing health or social challenges may be eligible for free Doula support. Ask your provider to find out if you qualify.

CHA Doula Program Flyer

CHA Doula Video (English)

CHA Doula Video (Português)

CHA Doula Video (Español)

After Delivery

We want to make sure you have everything you need.

Breastfeeding support

Breastfeeding is the best choice for both you and your baby. It gives your baby the healthiest food, it's free and it gives your baby antibodies to stay healthy. Breastfeeding also helps you bond with your baby, lose pregnancy weight and can reduce your risk for diabetes and certain cancers.

While breastfeeding is the best option, sometimes it can be hard. That's why we offer you support.

Our maternity nurses are trained in providing breastfeeding support and will help you get started.
For additional support, make an appointment with a lactation specialist. Call:
- Lauryl Ramakrishnan, IBCLC, CPNP-PC, 617-665-1264
- Miriam Segura Harrison, MD, IBCLC, at Union Square Family Medicine, 617-665-3370

Your baby will need to see a doctor many times during their first year and beyond. CHA's expert team of pediatricians includes doctors on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. Choose a CHA doctor -- pediatricians or family medicine providers -- and you will get a team to help you care for your child from birth through their teenage years.

Car Seat Safety

As a new parent, you want to make your first trip home with your baby a safe one. When leaving the hospital in a car, according to Massachusetts law, your baby must be put in a rear-facing infant car seat placed in the center of the back seat. You can contact your local police and fire department for help installing your car seat before your due date. Find out more about car seats here.

Newborn Services and Pediatrics

Your Pregnancy and Maternity Care Team

Tara Singh, MD Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Find a pregnancy and maternity care team you can trust. Search our directory for an OB/GYN Physician, Family Medicine Physician or a Certified Nurse Midwife. We are excited to help you during your journey.

OB/GYN Family Medicine Midwifery