Having a baby can seem frightening, especially for those experiencing childbirth for the first time. Becoming more educated about the procedures and options available, however, can go a long way in helping you to feel more confident about beginning the process.

From the location of the birth to pain management, there are many decisions to be made about the birthing process. Create a birth plan, but also accept the possibility that things may not go exactly as planned.

• Location of the birth
  A hospital, birthing center, or at home are the main options for where to have your baby. Most hospitals will offer a new mom special accommodations, including a birthing room and other private rooms for family members to sleep.  Birthing centers create a more home-like setting, but with medical technology readily available. Home deliveries, like birthing centers, are only recommended for women with a low-risk pregnancy.
  
  
• Who will assist with the birth
  OB/GYNs or perinatologists are often the natural choices to assist in the delivery of a baby, but family practitioners may also be qualified to deliver in some areas. A certified nurse-midwife is trained to care for healthy pregnant women and work closely with a physician who is available for consultation or assistance.
  
  
• Indications for a Cesarean section
  C-section refers to the surgical delivery of a child, as opposed to a vaginal delivery. During this procedure, the doctor makes incisions in the abdominal wall and uterus of the mother to remove the baby if either would be endangered by a vaginal delivery.  In most cases, this surgery is performed due to need, not because the mother has chosen it.

While a baby’s birth does not always go as planned, it is still valuable to spend time learning about your options and discussing them with your doctor. At the West Hills Hospital & Medical Center, we offer specialized maternal and child health services to provide each patient with a safe, joyful birthing experience. To learn more about the services offered at West Hills Hospital & Medical Center, visit our website or call our friendly staff at (818) 676-4000.

We may sometimes look at children and see smaller versions of ourselves, but deep down, we know that children have needs and medical issues much different than our own.  The healthcare professionals who specialize in pediatric care are very aware of this.  They know that childhood diseases, including cancer, are much different than those that adults suffer from. 

Childhood cancers are much less common than those that afflict adults; they account for only a small percentage of diagnosed cases of cancer.  In adult cases, there are certain aspects of a person’s lifestyle (smoking, diet, and alcohol use) that are known to increase their risk of developing cancer.  In children, the causes of the disease are largely unknown. 

The types of cancers seen in children and adults also tend to vary.  The most common cancers diagnosed in children are brain tumors, bone cancer, lymphomas, and leukemia.  While these types also occur in adults, they tend to be diagnosed at a much lower rate than lung, prostate, colon, and pancreatic cancers.  Some types can occur in adults that almost never affect children, and some affect children that are rarely found in adults.

In the past two decades, there has been an increase in the number of children diagnosed with cancer.  Fortunately, the death rate has decreased due to access to improved specialized care and cancer management. 

Childhood cancers are rare and need specialized treatment.  At West Hills Hospital & Medical Center, our health care professionals have continuing experience with the management of these diseases.  If you would like more information about our Cancer Center or our other services, please call us at (818) 676-4000 or visit our website.