While you need enough light to monitor an expectant mother's progress, harsh, direct lighting is distracting to both mom and observer. So do as I do--string Christmas lights in the rafters above the maternity ward for a festive, effective way to light a birthing stall.

Strings of non-blinking lights with larger bulbs throw the most light (enough to assist with a birth if necessary) but blinking lights work well for pre-birth observation detail.