Tour all the hospitals. And the birthing centers. Even talk to a home birth midwife!
Yes, even if you’re already set on your birth location.
Why?
These tours are a great way for you to learn the vast array of options available to birthing families. By learning the options, you’ll more easily be able to decide what kinds of things you would like for your own birth. This information will guide your questions that you bring up with your provider and help you formulate your birth plan.
You might be thinking: But don’t all hospitals offer the same birth services? That’s a big fat nope. And one you’re likely quickly going to learn on your tours.
Some tips to pay attention to while you check out area birthing facilities:
· What kind of fetal monitoring does the facility offer? Do they offer Doppler monitoring for low-risk labors? What would disqualify you from being low-risk? Do they have wireless continuous monitors that will allow you to move away from the bed? Are they waterproof? How far can you move and still be monitored?
· What are their policies regarding eating and drinking in labor?
· Do they have tubs and showers in the labor rooms? What are their policies regarding laboring and/or birthing in water?
· How many patients will your nurse be taking care of at one time?
· What is the facility’s c-section rate for first time moms (without other factors such as breech presentation or twin pregnancy)?
· Do they offer nitrous oxide for pain management?
· Do they have midwives on staff? How are their staff trained in supporting vaginal births?
· Do they have anti-doula or birth photographer policies?
· What steps are they taking to support women who choose to breastfeed? What are their rates of exclusive breastfeeding at discharge?
· Do they provide tools such as birth balls, peanut balls, and birth stools?
It’s likely you’ll notice these topics brought up and other details on your tours; things will naturally stand out as more important to your individual birth goals. Then, use these insights to help direct your own plan of care around your birth experience. I think you’ll be surprised how different hospitals in the same city might be.
Always remember, every bit of your care requires your consent. Never be afraid to ask questions – you deserve to know the full range of risks and potential benefits. You can always withdraw your consent. A good provider will naturally offer this conversation and respect whatever care decisions you make when they feel they’ve done their job in adequately educating you on the options.
Touring birth facilities is an easy and free way for you to learn about the choices you can make for you and your baby.
