First of all, mama, I want to congratulate you! Whether this is your first baby or not, I am honored to be here with you through this experience.

Before you ask me, no, I do not care if you shaved your you know what. There are plenty of other things I’m thinking of, and that is not one of them.

I’m so happy to be here for the birth of you and your baby, but most importantly, I’m happy to be here for YOU. It doesn’t matter to me if you want to breastfeed, it doesn’t matter if you want an epidural, or if you want to keep your placenta—it is entirely up to you. I am here for YOU!

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I can’t wait for you to meet your baby, but I want to know what I can do for you to make this process easier. Here are some things I want you to know that may happen during your labor and delivery stay.

I will never leave you in the dark, Mama. I will always tell you what I’m doing and why. If I anticipate the doctors coming in, I will tell you.

Often times you may find me in your room turning you from side to side. This is to help regulate your baby’s heart rate. They like to grab on to their umbilical cords at times. What can I say, Mama, they don’t want to leave ya!

I will tell you this, Mama, if I’m not worried, you shouldn’t be either. This is the number one thing I want you to remember. If I’m concerned, I will look you in your eyes and tell you that things are serious and whatever the provider is saying you should very seriously consider. I work with many knowledgeable attendings, residents, and interns. I know when things are serious, and I would not steer you wrong.

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Regardless if you have a vaginal delivery or C-section, you are the mother who was meant for your baby. There is nothing that can take away the moment your baby is put to your chest.

Your baby knows who you are, Mama. Embrace this moment. And I promise, I will make sure either myself or another nurse will be there to take pictures to document this momentous moment.

I couldn’t be more proud of you, Mama. This is why I do what I do. I am honored to be a part of this journey with you.

Originally published on the author’s blog