05/21/2026
This birth photo is such a good example of how many choices families can have during labor when everything is low risk and progressing well.
You can see the IV in my hand, but instead of being hooked up to continuous fluids/medications, I chose to have a saline lock (also called a hep lock or “closed IV”). This allows quick IV access if ever needed while still giving freedom to move, labor in the tub, change positions, and stay untethered.
You can also see intermittent fetal monitoring being done with a handheld Doppler instead of continuous monitoring. For many low-risk pregnancies where both birthing person and baby are doing well, this can be an option. It allows more mobility during labor while still checking in regularly on baby’s heart rate and overall well-being.
Hydrotherapy, movement, intermittent monitoring, birth combs, position changes… labor support does not have to mean staying confined to a bed. Every birth and every medical situation is different, but informed choices matter. 🤍