At Jennifer Almonte, MD in McAllen, Texas, our board-certified OB/GYNs provide expert labor and delivery care for both routine and high-risk pregnancies. Whether you’re preparing for a vaginal birth or cesarean section, we ensure a safe, supportive experience.
Labor Management
Labor management involves monitoring and guiding you through the different stages of labor to ensure a safe delivery for both you and your baby. Our team closely tracks your contractions, your baby’s heart rate, and the progress of your labor. We use advanced technology like fetal monitoring to detect any signs of distress early on. Our goal is to ensure that labor progresses naturally while being prepared to intervene if necessary.
High-Risk Delivery Management
Pregnancies classified as high-risk require specialized care to manage potential complications that could affect you or your baby. High-risk factors include conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, multiple pregnancies (twins or more), or previous pregnancy complications. Our OB/GYNs have extensive experience managing complex cases and work closely with specialists when needed. We provide extra monitoring, curate personalized birth plans, and use advanced technology to ensure the safest possible delivery for both mother and baby.
Pain Relief Options
Natural Pain Relief
Natural pain relief methods focus on helping you manage discomfort without medication. These include breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, warm showers or baths, and changing positions to ease pressure. Using a birthing ball, walking, or gentle movement can also help labor progress while reducing pain. Some women find comfort in massage, soothing music, or the support of a partner or doula. These approaches work by helping your body release endorphins—natural pain relievers—and providing a calming environment.
Medical Pain Relief
The most common method for medical pain relief is an epidural, which involves placing medication near your spine to numb the lower body while keeping you awake and alert. Epidurals provide significant relief but allow you to stay involved in your delivery. Intravenous (IV) medications can also offer quick pain reduction without complete numbness. Our team will discuss the benefits and potential side effects of each medical pain relief option, ensuring you can choose the best fit for your needs and birth plan.
When Should I Go to the Hospital?
You should head to the hospital if you experience regular contractions (five minutes apart for at least an hour if it’s your first baby, or closer if you’ve delivered before), your water breaks, you notice decreased baby movements, or you have any signs of heavy bleeding or severe pain. If you’re unsure, call our office—we’re here to guide you.
Delivery Options
Vaginal Delivery
A vaginal delivery involves delivering the baby through the birth canal. We encourage and support vaginal births when it is the safest option for both mother and baby or when it’s the mother’s choice. During delivery, we monitor you and your baby closely, offer guidance on pushing, and assist as needed to ensure a smooth delivery. If complications arise, our OB/GYNs are prepared to act quickly. We have privileges at DHR Health Women’s Hospital in Edinburg, TX, so you have access to the region’s top maternity care.
Cesarean Section (C-Section)
A cesarean section (C-section) is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. This option may be planned in advance for medical reasons, such as a breech baby or multiple births, or it may become necessary during labor if complications arise. During the C-section procedure, you’ll be given anesthesia (usually a spinal block or epidural) so you remain awake but feel no pain. We offer compassionate care before, during, and after the surgery.
Labor & Delivery FAQs
How Long Will I Stay In the Hospital After Delivery?
For a vaginal delivery, most patients stay 24 to 48 hours. After a C-section, the typical stay is 2 to 4 days to ensure proper recovery and monitoring.
Can I Have Someone With Me During Labor?
Yes! You are welcome to have a support person (like your partner, family member, or friend) with you during labor and delivery. Emotional support is vital for a positive birth experience.
Can I Create a Birth Plan?
Absolutely! We encourage patients to create a birth plan to outline their preferences for pain management, delivery positions, and postpartum care. Our team will review your plan with you and make sure we respect your wishes while ensuring safety.
What Should I Bring to the Hospital?
When you go to the hospital, pack essentials like comfortable clothes, toiletries, snacks, a phone charger, baby clothes, a car seat, and any personal comfort items. The hospital will provide necessities like gowns, diapers, and basic baby supplies.
Why Choose Jennifer Almonte, MD?
Jennifer Almonte, MD is dedicated to providing patient-centered labor and delivery care in McAllen, Texas. Led by board-certified OB/GYNs Dr. Jennifer Almonte and Dr. Amanda Delgado, our team offers personalized support for routine and high-risk pregnancies. With privileges at DHR Health Women’s Hospital, we offer expert care in a safe, supportive environment. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your labor and delivery needs and experience exceptional care for you and your baby.
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