Welcome to Labor & Delivery
The Bedside Companion to Your Hospital Childbirth Experience
Your Complete Birth Companion
Synopsis
Welcome to Labor and Delivery! is a compassionate, deeply informative guide written by a bedside nurse who has cared for thousands of families through one of the most transformative moments of their lives. Blending clear explanations, real clinical insight, and the unmistakable warmth of a nurse who never leaves your side, this book walks readers through every stage of childbirth with honesty, reassurance, and heart.
From the first contractions to the first cry, Kimberly Heathcote, RN, BSN, offers a rare inside perspective on what truly happens in the labor room—what nurses look for, how they support you, and the small but important details that make all the difference. With practical tips, colored nurse's notes, compassion boxes, and straightforward medical guidance, this book takes the guess work out of the the process so patients feel informed, empowered, and deeply supported.
Whether you're preparing for a vaginal birth, a cesarean, an induction, or an unexpected turn in your birth story, this bedside companion ensures you never feel alone. It's the voice of a seasoned nurse gently guiding you through every decision, every sensation, every fear, and every triumph—so you can walk into your birth confident, prepared, and wrapped in the kind of care every parent deserves.
What This Book Is
Welcome to Labor and Delivery is the book I wish every expectant parent could have by their side — a calm, honest, and deeply supportive guide written by someone who has been in the room for thousands of births.
This isn't just another pregnancy book filled with medical jargon or unrealistic expectations. This is a bedside companion — the voice of your nurse, walking you through every stage of labor, every decision, every emotion, and every moment of uncertainty with clarity, compassion, and real-world insight.
From the first contraction to the final push, this book will help you understand what's happening, what to expect, and how to advocate for the birth experience you want — while preparing you for the realities of what birth truly is.
Who This Book Is For
This book is for you if:
- You're pregnant and want to feel prepared, not scared
- You want to understand the medical side of birth without feeling overwhelmed
- You're looking for honest, judgment-free guidance on pain management, interventions, and birth plans
- You want to know what really happens in a hospital delivery room
- You're a partner, doula, or support person who wants to show up with confidence and knowledge
- You've had a previous birth experience and want to feel more empowered this time
Whether this is your first baby or your fourth, whether you're planning an unmedicated birth or requesting an epidural the moment you arrive — this book is for you.
What Makes This Book Different
Most pregnancy books are written by doctors or researchers. This book is written by a bedside Labor & Delivery nurse — someone who has held hands, coached pushes, explained procedures, and witnessed the raw, real, beautiful truth of birth thousands of times.
I don't just know the textbook version of labor. I know what it feels like in the room. I know the questions you'll ask at 2 AM. I know the fears that keep you up at night. And I know how to help you walk into your birth feeling informed, supported, and ready.
This book gives you:
- Real talk about contractions, pain management, and medical interventions
- Insight into hospital protocols, staff roles, and how to communicate your needs
- Practical coping techniques that actually work
- Honest answers to the questions you're too afraid to ask
- The emotional preparation that no one talks about
This is one of the few pregnancy books written by a practicing Labor & Delivery nurse, offering real-life insight into birth, coping techniques, medical interventions, and the emotional journey of becoming a parent.
The Heart of This Book
Birth is one of the most powerful experiences of your life — and you deserve to walk into it feeling prepared, supported, and seen.
You are not alone.
This book is your nurse.
This book is your hand to hold.
This book is the voice cheering you on when you think you can't do one more push.
Book Details
- Pages: 450+
- Genre: Patient-Centered Childbirth Education / Medical Non-Fiction
- Author: Kimberly E. Heathcote, RN, BSN, RNC-OB, C-OBE, DONA
- Publisher: Self-published
- Language: English
Purchase Options
available now
What Readers Are Saying
Coming Soon - Awaiting Peer Review from 100+ Nurses, Midwives, and Doctors
Perfect For
Expectant Parents
First-time parents and those who want a refresher on the hospital birth experience
Support People & Partners
Those who want to provide the best possible support during labor and delivery
Labor & Delivery Nurses
New nurses, preceptors, students, and those transitioning into L&D
Doulas
Birth workers who want to better understand the hospital birth environment
Ready to Feel Confident About Your Birth?
Join thousands of parents who walked into the delivery room feeling informed, prepared, and empowered.