You have probably given thought to where you will deliver your baby, but do you know what to expect when the big day arrives? Although everyone’s experience is unique, this overview will acquaint you with a typical delivery experience.
Preparing for Your Hospital Stay
When choosing a hospital, carefully consider which facility best meets your needs. Many hospitals offer tours and allow you to meet with the Labor and Delivery staff. The staff is there to make sure you and your baby are healthy before and after the birth, but they are also there to provide you and your family with all the support and education you need. Be sure to ask them any questions you may have.
There are several key elements an expectant mother should look for in a hospital. These include a level 3 nursery (also known as a NICU, or neonatal intensive care unit), and 24/7 coverage of both a pediatrician and a neonatologist. All are important if emergency or specialized infant care is needed. Round-the-clock availability of an in-house physician is also essential.
Arriving at the Hospital
When you feel labor has begun, contact your doctor. Your obstetrician will assess your condition and let you know if it is time for you to head to the hospital.
If arriving at the hospital prior to midnight, you will enter through the main lobby and a staff member will escort you to the Labor and Delivery unit. You will most likely have to enter through the emergency room should you arrive between midnight and 6 AM. If you are uncomfortable walking, you may request a wheelchair.
The Labor and Delivery Unit
When you get to the Labor and Delivery unit, you will be greeted by a staff member who will show you to your room.
Once in your room, you will be asked to change in to a hospital gown. A nurse will then ask you for some information to begin your patient file.
The nurse will start an intravenous drip, draw blood and request urine for routine lab tests. They will also attach a fetal monitor to your abdomen to measure your contractions and your baby’s heartbeat. At this time, it is very important that you tell the nurse if you have any special needs or requests, have a birth plan, or are participating in cord blood banking. This is also the time to tell the nurse if you will be breastfeeding.
If you choose, an anesthesiologist will be called to administer an epidural when it is time to manage your pain.
Your Birth Experience & Early Bonding
Your significant other is encouraged to stay with you throughout the birth. The only times they will be asked to step out is during the administration of the epidural, and while you are prepared for surgery in the event of a C-section.
Immediately after delivery, your baby will be given to you and the bonding process will begin.
If you choose to breastfeed, your first feeding will begin within the hour following delivery. Research indicates this is the best time to begin a successful breastfeeding routine.
You may keep your child in your room with you. He or she will be brought to the nursery when you need rest. Most facilities will allow unrestricted visiting hours for your significant other. Visiting hours will likely be limited for additional family members and friends.
Before You Return Home
Prior to discharge, hospital staff will provide you with educational information. Some of the topics they will cover are: recognizing child health and growth milestones, feeding (breast or bottle), bathing, and recognizing symptoms of postpartum depression.
You should have a car seat installed and checked for safety by a certified car seat technician prior to transporting your baby. Your local police department can perform this inspection.
Ask the Experts
This is a very special time for you, your partner and your family. Do not hesitate to rely on the expertise of you doctor, hospital nurses, and other staff to answer any questions about the labor and delivery process or child care. The goal of any hospital is to deliver a healthy baby and contribute to a very special birth experience for the mother and family.