After nine months of waiting it’s time to greet your new baby. Your bag is packed and you’re ready for this exciting time to begin. From your obstetrician to caring and experienced nurses you’ll have a team on your side to guide and support you and your partner through labor, delivery and recovery.
Your physician and the nursing staff at the BirthCare Center will monitor you and your baby during labor and delivery. You and your baby will stay in your Birthing Suite for the initial recovery process and then be transferred to a spacious Family Suite. Your baby will remain in your room throughout your hospital stay; this is referred to as “Rooming-in”.
How will my doctor and nurses know if I want a natural delivery or pain control and who can be with me during labor and delivery?
During your prenatal visits we will talk about these options. When you have your private appointment with the Stork’s Nest Program at Henry Community Health you will finalize your Birth Plan so the doctors and nurses know your preferences for labor and delivery.
When do I start breastfeeding?
You’ll usually start breastfeeding while you are in your Birthing Suite. Studies show breastfeeding is more successful if initiated within the first hour after birth. Specially-trained nurses and lactation counselors are happy to help you learn to nurse your baby. Bottle feeding may be initiated if preferred, and the nurses will help you with this as well.
What if my baby needs additional care?
Our Level 1 Special Care Nursery provides this additional care when your baby needs it. In addition to skilled nurses, your baby will be cared for by a Pediatric Hospitalist who is experienced and skilled in caring for newborns. These board certified Pediatricians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help care for your newborn.
Trained in children’s hospitals and Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU), they attend higher risk deliveries. They care for healthy newborns as well as those that are experiencing problems such as respiratory distress, infections, jaundice and blood sugar issues. If a transfer is needed to a NICU, they collaborate closely with Peyton Manning and Riley Children’s Hospitals. You may also request the hospital of your choice.