Preparing questions in advance can help patients have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor or healthcare professional the following questions about labor and delivery:

1. Should I call you first or should I go directly to the hospital if I think I’m in labor?
   
   
2. What signs or symptoms tell me I should go directly to the hospital?
   
   
3. Will you be able to deliver the baby on or around my due date, or will another doctor be on call?
   
   
4. Will I be allowed to drink water and other beverages (e.g., juice, soda) after I’ve been admitted to the hospital?
   
   
5. Will you allow me to go beyond my due date or will you induce labor?
   
   
6. What pain relief options do you recommend during labor and delivery?
   
   
7. Who can join me in the delivery room? Who can be in the operating room if a Caesarean section is required?
   
   
8. Are cameras permitted?
   
   
9. What is the visitation policy for family? Is there some place for my spouse/partner to sleep in my hospital room?
   
   
10. How long do I stay in the hospital for vaginal or Caesarean delivery? May I leave earlier if I wish?
    
    
11. How soon after delivery will my baby need to be fed?