Labor and delivery nurses play an important role in one of life’s most pivotal moments — childbirth. These specialized registered nurses (RNs) provide essential care and support for expectant mothers before, during, and immediately after delivery. They monitor fetal development, assist during labor, manage complications, and ensure the well-being of both mother and baby throughout the birthing process.
In 2025, the demand for labor and delivery nurses remains strong, driven by increasing birth rates in some regions, a nationwide need for skilled maternal health professionals, and retirements among the existing nurse workforce.
Choosing to become a labor and delivery nurse in 2025 means stepping into a role filled with both emotional fulfillment and professional opportunity. The path to this career combines rigorous education, hands-on clinical training, licensure, and often optional specialization in maternal health. For students considering this path, understanding each stage of preparation is essential to making informed decisions and setting a strong foundation for success.
What Does a Labor and Delivery Nurse Do?
Labor and delivery nurses are responsible for guiding patients through all stages of the childbirth process. Their role is both highly technical and deeply compassionate, requiring a balance of clinical expertise and emotional support.
Daily Responsibilities
Labor and delivery nurses provide care during all childbirth stages, including early labor, active labor, fetal delivery, and placental delivery, as well as postpartum (after birth) and neonatal (newborn care) stages. Common duties include:
- Monitoring vital signs of both mother and baby
- Administering medications, including epidurals and IV drips
- Assisting physicians and midwives during delivery
- Coaching mothers through labor and breathing techniques
- Recognizing and responding to complications, such as fetal distress
- Educating patients and families on postpartum care and newborn health
Work Settings
Most labor and delivery nurses work in hospital maternity wards or birthing units, birth centers, and, occasionally, in home-birth settings with licensed midwives. They may also occasionally work in obstetric and gynecological clinics.
Key Skills
Successful labor and delivery nurses combine clinical proficiency with soft skills that make patients feel safe and supported. Important attributes include:
- Clinical skills: fetal monitoring, medication administration, emergency response
- Communication: clearly relaying information to patients, families, and healthcare teams
- Empathy and patience: providing emotional support during high-stress situations
- Attention to detail: noticing early signs of complications or distress
Educational Pathway for Becoming a Labor and Delivery Nurse
To become a labor and delivery nurse, individuals must establish a strong educational foundation, beginning in high school and continuing through nursing school and specialized training.
Earn a High School Diploma
Students interested in this career should focus on high school courses in:
- Biology and human anatomy
- Chemistry
- Health sciences
- Psychology
Participating in health-focused extracurriculars or volunteering in healthcare settings can also help build relevant experience and strengthen college applications.
Earn a College Degree
Aspiring labor and delivery nurses must become registered nurses by completing either:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): An ADN program is typically a two-year program offered at a community college. An ADN program is often faster and more affordable, but it may limit long-term career advancement.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): A BSN program is a four-year degree program that includes broader clinical training and leadership courses. Nurses with a BSN are often preferred by hospital recruiters and required for managerial roles.
BSN-prepared nurses generally have more opportunities for advancement and are better positioned for specialized roles.
Importance of Degree Program Accreditation
Choose a nursing program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards and is a requirement for licensure eligibility.
Specialize in Maternal or Perinatal Health
While not required, nursing students can enhance their qualifications by choosing electives or clinical placements in maternal-child health, obstetrics, neonatal care, or women’s health nursing.
These experiences provide valuable exposure and can strengthen applications for labor and delivery positions after licensure.
Licensing and Certification Requirements for Labor and Delivery Nurses
After completing an accredited nursing program, the next step toward becoming a labor and delivery nurse is obtaining licensure and building relevant experience in maternal care. This process ensures nurses are legally qualified and clinically prepared to provide safe, competent care.
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
All registered nurses in the U.S. must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This standardized exam tests candidates on:
- Patient care and safety
- Pharmacology and medication administration
- Health promotion and maintenance
- Psychosocial and physiological integrity
Gain Experience in Maternity or OB/GYN Nursing
Entry-level RNs often begin in general medical-surgical nursing before transferring into a maternity unit. However, aspiring labor and delivery nurses should aim to gain hands-on experience in:
- Obstetrics and gynecology units
- Postpartum care
- Neonatal units
- Labor and delivery units, if available
Earn Voluntary Certifications
While not mandatory, certifications demonstrate advanced knowledge and can improve job prospects. A widely recognized option is the inpatient obstetric nursing (RNC-OB) certification, offered by the National Certification Corporation (NCC).
To be eligible, candidates must:
- Hold a current RN license
- Have at least two years of labor and delivery experience
- Complete an exam covering fetal assessment, labor complications, and more
Other relevant certifications include:
- Electronic fetal monitoring (C-EFM)
- Neonatal resuscitation program (NRP)
Meet State-Specific Requirements
Each state has its own nursing licensure board with additional state nursing licensure requirements, such as:
- Background checks
- Continuing education hours
- Application and renewal fees
To find your state’s requirements, visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Labor and Delivery Nurse?
The timeline to become a labor and delivery nurse can vary based on your chosen educational path and career goals. Most candidates complete the process in three to six years.
General Timeline
- High School Diploma: Four years
- ADN Program: Two to three years
- BSN Program: Four years
- NCLEX-RN Preparation and Testing: A few months
- Entry-Level Nursing Experience: One to two years (if pursuing certification)
- Voluntary Certification: After two years of clinical experience
Factors That Affect Timing
- Part-time vs. full-time enrollment
- Enrolling in a bridge program (e.g., LPN to RN or RN to BSN) for students with existing nursing credentials
- Enrolling in an accelerated BSN for students with a prior bachelor’s degree
- Availability of clinical placements and exam dates
Some students may choose to enter the workforce as RNs with an ADN and pursue a BSN later through an RN to BSN program. This approach can shorten the initial timeline to two to three years while allowing continued education on the job.
Summary
While the exact timeframe varies, a realistic estimate to become a labor and delivery nurse — from starting a nursing program to gaining licensure and experience — is typically between three and six years, depending on the educational and certification route chosen.
Cost and Financial Considerations
Becoming a labor and delivery nurse is a significant investment, but careful financial planning and awareness of funding opportunities can make the journey more affordable and sustainable.
Typical Costs for Nursing Education
The cost of becoming a labor and delivery nurse varies based on the type of program and institution:
- Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN):
- Public schools: $6,000–$20,000 (per Nursing World)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN):
- Public and private institutions: $40,000–$200,000
- NCLEX-RN exam fee: $200 (plus state-specific registration fees)
- Certification exam (e.g., RNC-OB): $325 for NCC certification
Additional expenses may include textbooks, uniforms, clinical equipment, health insurance, and commuting costs for in-person clinical experiences.
Ways to Fund Your Education
There are several options to help offset the cost of nursing school:
- Federal student aid: Apply via the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
- Scholarships and grants: Offered by universities, nonprofits, and professional organizations
- Loan forgiveness programs: Such as the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program for those working in underserved areas
- Employer reimbursement: Hospital-provided tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing nursing degrees
- Work-study opportunities: On-campus or community-based jobs tied to your financial aid package
Tips for Financial Planning
- Compare ADN vs. BSN costs and return on investment
- Start at a community college and transfer to a BSN program if needed
- Track all expenses, and apply early for scholarships and grants
- Work part-time in healthcare for early exposure and potential tuition benefits
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
Labor and delivery nurses are part of the broader category of registered nurses, whose demand and compensation are both projected to remain strong throughout the coming decade.
Employment Growth
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of registered nurses is expected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS projects some 194,500 RN job openings each year, driven by workforce retirements, increasing demand for maternity care, and a greater focus on patient outcomes.
Labor and delivery nurses are particularly needed in:
- Hospitals with high birth volumes
- Underserved rural and urban communities
- Specialized birthing centers and women’s health clinics
Salary Range and Earning Potential
As of May 2024, the median annual salary for registered nurses was $93,600, according to the BLS. Labor and delivery nurses often fall on the higher end of this scale due to their specialization and clinical responsibilities.
- Salary for Lowest 10%: Less than $66,030
- Median Salary: $93,600
- Salary for Top 10%: More than $135,320
Factors Influencing Salary
- Experience level and seniority
- Education (BSN-prepared nurses often earn more than ADN-prepared nurses)
- Geographic location (urban hospitals typically pay more than rural facilities)
- Type of employer (private hospitals vs. public or nonprofit organizations)
- Specialized certifications (e.g., RNC-OB, NRP)
Pursuing certifications, joining professional organizations, and gaining experience in high-demand locations can significantly improve salary and advancement potential.
Tips for Success
Standing out as a labor and delivery nurse requires more than academic credentials. Success in this emotionally charged and fast-paced field often depends on initiative, compassion, and continuous professional development.
Make the Most of Clinical Rotations
Clinical placements during nursing school are a prime opportunity to gain hands-on experience and build a strong reputation.
- Be proactive: Ask questions and seek opportunities to assist during deliveries.
- Stay calm under pressure: Labor and delivery units are dynamic and unpredictable — demonstrating composure is essential.
- Reflect and learn: Take time to process complex cases and ask for feedback.
Leverage Mentorship and Networking
Connecting with experienced professionals can provide valuable insights and career guidance.
- Find a mentor: Seek out a labor and delivery nurse or nurse educator who can offer advice and encouragement.
- Join professional communities: Active participation shows dedication to the field and can open doors to job opportunities.
Stay Informed and Connected
Engage with professional organizations to stay current with best practices in maternal health.
- Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN): Offers educational resources, conferences, and a supportive network
- Sigma Theta Tau International: Nursing honor society that promotes leadership and academic excellence
- State-level nursing associations: Useful for local advocacy and licensure updates
Labor and Delivery Nurse FAQ
Is a BSN better than an ADN for labor and delivery nursing?
While both degrees qualify you to become an RN, many hospitals prefer or require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). A BSN provides broader training, can lead to higher salaries, and is often necessary for leadership or advanced practice roles.
Can I complete my nursing degree online?
Some components of nursing education — such as lectures and theory — can be completed online. However, clinical hours must be done in person at an approved healthcare facility. Many schools offer hybrid BSN programs, which combine online coursework with in-person clinicals.
What’s the difference between a labor and delivery nurse and a nurse midwife?
A labor and delivery nurse is a registered nurse who supports patients during childbirth but does not perform deliveries independently. A nurse midwife is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with a master’s or doctoral degree who can independently manage pregnancies and perform deliveries.
Next Steps
If you’re ready to pursue a career in labor and delivery nursing, taking thoughtful steps now can help you prepare effectively and confidently.
- Research accredited nursing programs: Look for ADN or BSN programs with strong maternal health clinical experience options and CCNE or ACEN accreditation.
- Reach out to professionals: Conduct informational interviews with labor and delivery nurses to learn about their career paths and get practical advice.
- Map out prerequisites and deadlines: Identify the classes and standardized tests (e.g., TEAS) required for your chosen nursing programs and create a timeline to stay on track.
- Explore funding opportunities early: Many scholarships and aid programs have early deadlines, so start gathering materials and writing application essays now.
- Stay informed: Follow organizations like AWHONN and your state’s board of nursing for the latest updates on education, licensure, and industry trends.
With the right preparation, becoming a labor and delivery nurse is a rewarding and achievable goal that offers the chance to make a meaningful difference every day.
