Special Delivery: Sutter Health Creates a Unique Approach to Caring for First-Time Moms

Go to any magazine rack and you'll find an abundance of articles related to pregnancy and delivery. From proper nutrition and exercise to birthing tips and the latest maternity products, you'll learn just about everything you need to know about conception, delivery and bringing your baby home. Few publications, however, make any distinction between having your first child and having your second or third.

"First-time mothers have special needs since they haven't given birth before. They are more likely to have longer labors and desire pain medication during this time," says Nancy Wigginton, M.D., OB/GYN at Eden Medical Center, a Sutter Health affiliate. "It's important for first-time mothers to understand this and discuss these issues with their doctor."

Of the more than 40,000 babies born at Sutter Health hospitals every year, nearly 45 percent are deliveries from first-time mothers. That's why Sutter Health launched a special initiative known as First Pregnancy and Delivery (FPAD) in 1999. The comprehensive program focuses on the unique needs of firsttime mothers and aims to reduce the risks associated with first-time deliveries.

Early Labor and Induction

Without the benefit of experience, many first-time mothers head for the hospital as soon as their contractions start. Studies show, however, that admitting first-time mothers too early in their labor and confining them to bed increases the risk for cesarean section and longer, more difficult deliveries.

"It's not uncommon for first-time mothers to make more than one trip to the hospital. If they aren't far enough along, we may send them home," says Dr. Wigginton, who is involved in Sutter Health's FPAD initiative. "First-time mothers do better if they are admitted in active labor, when their cervix is at least three centimeters dilated." (More information on the signs of labor.)

Studies show that inducing labor in first-time mothers also leads to longer labor and increases the risk for cesarean section. Yet the labor induction rate in the United States doubled from 1990 to 1998, with the majority being elective. It's important to note that mothers having their second or third baby may have no additional consequences from inducing labor.

"Many women like the idea of scheduling their delivery date, but inducing labor in first-time mothers should be done only when it's medically necessary and not for convenience," adds Dr. Wigginton. Since the start of FPAD, induction rates for first-time mothers throughout Sutter Health hospitals have decreased more than 22 percent, thanks to the efforts of Sutter's doctors and nurses.

A Meaningful Experience

First-time mother Robin Hutto's biggest fear about childbirth was the pain. The Oakland resident delivered her first baby at Eden Medical Center in Castro Valley last March. "I was very anxious about the delivery," says Hutto. "I don't think anything really prepares you for what it's going to be like until you are there."

During Hutto's labor, nurses gave her some techniques to help lessen her pain, such as showering, listening to music and using a birthing ball to relieve pressure on her back. While the concept of labor support has been around for centuries, recent scientific studies show that professional labor support can shorten labor, reduce the need for medication and lower the risk for cesarean section. It's especially helpful for first-time mothers, since they have never been through the birthing process.

"A lot of my anxiety came from not knowing what would happen next," says Hutto. "The nurses told me what to expect every step of the way and made sure I was as comfortable as possible. When the doctor came, everyone kept cheering my husband and me on. They were all so amazing, and their support and encouragement really helped."

To the joy of about 20 friends and relatives waiting outside the delivery room, Hutto gave birth to a healthy baby girl named Eden! This is the first grandchild on Hutto's side of the family. "Giving birth was an overwhelming but wonderful experience," says Hutto. "I'm so grateful that I was able to have my baby at Eden Medical Center. My mother has worked here for more than 20 years. I felt like I was among family."

Hutto also adds that she encourages other women to take advantage of any help offered to them in the delivery room. "You may feel uncomfortable, but the people there really are eager to help. I can't thank them enough."
Learn more about the First Pregnancy and Delivery Initiative (FPAD)
See a list of Sutter Health facilities where you can deliver