Top 10 Pieces of Labor Advice for Every Mom

Alright, mama-to-be, you’re getting close! That big day is looming ahead, and you’re probably feeling all the feelings: excited, terrified, emotional, hungry (for ice cream at 2 a.m., naturally). As a photographer who spends an insane amount of time around new moms, I’ve heard just about every story when it comes to labor. So, let’s talk about it! Here are my top 10 pieces of labor advice that every mom should know before the grand entrance of your little one.

Oh, and if you want to remember this magical time in your life (yes, even the sleepless nights and spit-up-covered shirts), Erin Wilwert Photography is here to capture those precious moments after baby arrives. Okay, shameless plug over—let’s get to the real talk.

1. Expect the Unexpected (Seriously)

Let’s just get this out of the way: labor is unpredictable. You can take all the birthing classes, read every book, and write the world’s most detailed birth plan, but guess what? Babies don’t care. They’ll show up when and how they want. Water break at Target? Sure. Five hours of pushing followed by an emergency C-section? It happens. Be prepared to go with the flow because labor doesn’t care about your perfect timeline.

2. Stay Hydrated (Yep, Even in Labor)

Everyone loves to tell you to drink water when you’re pregnant. “Oh, just drink water!” like it’s some magical fix-all for everything from swollen ankles to exhaustion. Well, they’re not wrong, and staying hydrated during labor is actually key, too. You might not be allowed a cheeseburger mid-contraction (bummer), but ask for ice chips or water as often as you can. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re not feeling like a desert.

3. Don’t Be a Hero: Take the Pain Meds

Look, I’m not here to tell you how to give birth. If you want to go all-natural, you’re amazing and deserve a medal. But if you’re considering that epidural or other pain relief options, there’s no shame in that game. You wouldn’t run a marathon without hydration, right? So don’t feel like you need to prove anything during labor. Pain management exists for a reason, and you deserve to be as comfortable as you want/can while you bring a tiny human into the world.

Fresh 48 photo by Erin Wilwert Photography

4. Bring Snacks for After

Oh, you thought I was going to say "bring snacks for during labor"? Well, unless you’re down for some popsicles or ice chips, you’re not eating during the main event. But you WILL be ravenous afterward. Trust me, it’s like you just ran that marathon we mentioned (but with a baby as the finish line). So pack your favorite snacks in that hospital bag. Think protein bars, crackers, and yes, even candy. You’ve earned it.

5. The Weird Noises Are Normal

I know, I know. You’ve heard that childbirth can be loud, but you’re thinking, “That’s not going to be me, I’ll be quiet.” Spoiler alert: you probably won’t be. Between moaning, deep breathing, screaming, and noises you didn’t even know you could make, labor is a concert of sounds. Embrace it. There’s no judgment in the delivery room, and if there is, you’re too busy to care. Let your body do its thing.

6. Labor Doesn’t End with the Baby

Bad news: once your baby is out, the labor isn’t quite over. The placenta’s gotta come out, too, and that can involve a little extra pushing or cramping (yay?). The good news? By this point, you’ll be so distracted by your adorable new baby that you won’t care too much. But just know—it’s a two-part deal. There’s no skipping Part 2.

7. Pooping During Labor Happens

Yep, I’m going there. It’s a fact of life, people. Pooping during labor is common and usually happens when you’re pushing (thanks, body, for multitasking!). I know it sounds embarrassing, but the doctors and nurses are used to it. Like, really used to it. They won’t even blink an eye. So, if it happens? Just keep on pushing (literally and figuratively).

8. Your Birth Partner Is There to Help

Whether it’s your spouse, your best friend, or your mom, your birth partner is there to help and support YOU. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need. If that means rubbing your back, holding your hand, or running to Starbucks for a decaf latte (remember the no-caffeine rule?), don’t be shy about delegating. And if they faint? Well, that’s on them, not you. You’re the one doing all the hard work.

9. Embrace the Ugly Cry

Labor is emotional. Like, super emotional. Don’t be surprised if you cry (a lot) throughout the process. Whether it’s from pain, frustration, joy, or sheer exhaustion, tears are all part of the deal. And trust me, when that baby is finally in your arms, the happy crying is real. Don’t hold back. If anyone deserves a good sob session, it’s you, mama.

10. Your Experience is YOURS

Let me leave you with this final piece of wisdom: every labor experience is unique. Comparing yours to anyone else’s is pointless. Whether your labor is fast and furious, slow and steady, or full of unexpected twists, it’s your journey. Own it. And remember, the end goal is the same—your beautiful baby.

Bonus: Don’t Forget Newborn Photos!

Now that you’ve survived labor (congrats!), you’re going to want to document the result of all that hard work. Those early newborn days are a blur of cuddles, sleepless nights, and endless love—and you’ll want photos to remember every moment. That’s where I come in!

At Erin Wilwert Photography, I specialize in capturing the sweetness of those early days. From peaceful newborn sessions to stunning maternity shots (if you’re planning ahead), I’m here to help you create beautiful memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime. I promise to make the process easy and stress-free—because let’s be honest, you’ve got enough on your plate.

Ready to book your session? Let’s capture those fleeting newborn moments while you catch your breath from labor.