In this episode, we begin Siman 330 of the Mishnah Berurah, exploring the halachos of childbirth on Shabbos. A woman in labor is considered to be in life-threatening danger (choleh sheyesh bo sakana), permitting Shabbos desecration to ensure her safety. We examine what actions are allowed for her, her helpers, and medical staff—including lighting candles, calling a midwife from afar, and making changes (shinui) when possible. The shiur discusses the balance between speed and modification, when urgency overrides the need for a shinui, and the reasoning behind lighting candles even for a blind woman for her peace of mind.

We also delve into the halachic parameters for assisting non-Jewish women in childbirth on Shabbos—when concern for animosity (eivah) may permit limited assistance, and how modern-day poskim apply this to Jewish doctors treating non-Jewish patients. Finally, we define when a woman attains the halachic status of a yoledes—at the onset of labor, when her waters break, or when she can no longer walk unaided—triggering the full leniencies of pikuach nefesh on Shabbos.