1. Poskim discuss the most preferable way to travel to the hospital to give birth on Shabbat. In principle, the most ideal method is to ask a non-Jew to drive, either via a taxi/car service or a non-Jewish neighbor (Torat Hayoledet, ch.13). Although we learned concerning a patient whose life is in danger that it is preferable for an adult Jew to perform melachah, birth is a natural process, and therefore differs somewhat from a regular case of danger in this regard.

2. In many cases, especially in Israel, but even in the United States, this is not practical for any variety of reasons. In such a case, some write that it is preferable to use a private car to drive, since this involves less melachah violation than an ambulance (Orchot Shabbat 20:77-79). Others write that even in Israel, where the ambulance drivers are often Jewish, it is better to use an ambulance, since the ambulance driver will likely drive in a more professional manner and can use the siren if needed (R. Mordechai Eliyahu, Kol Eliyahu 25:2). A couple should decide together, in consultation with their rabbinic authority if needed, what the best method of transportation to the hospital would be for them.

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Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for everlasting peace in Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchos Shabbos.