What To Expect

Everyone’s labor and delivery are unique. We have learned that the more you know about pregnancy, childbirth and baby care, the more comfortable and confident you will be. We encourage you to participate in our educational programs. Click here for a complete list of programs. We also invite you to explore the many options under Birth Partners/Doulas, a partnership of birth and post-partum doulas. We have collaborated with Birth Partners to accomodate those patients who wish to use this service. Click here for more on doulas or go to www.birthpartnersdoulas.com.

The family birthing experience

Your birthing room has been designed to provide a comfortable, home-like setting. Our birthing beds adjust to various labor and delivery positions for maximum comfort. Your room, decorated with contemporary furnishings, also has a sleeper cot for your partner, private bathroom and shower and television all provided in an effort to personalize your birthing experience.

During active labor, you will be monitored by your doctor and nurse and supported by your partner. If children are here, we ask that an adult be present to care for them while you are in labor. Children attending the actual birth must complete a class beforehand. The family lounge is equipped with a television and a nearby toilet facilities and phones. The Childbirth Center also has a Jacuzzi for your use during labor. This warm soothing bath has helped some women relax during labor. If you desire, you may bring in a cassette player and tapes for relaxation during labor and for your use during your stay. VCRs and tapes are provided.

Anesthesia

Many mothers prefer not to take medication during labor and birthing. Should medication be administered, all forms of pain relief, including epidural anesthesia, may be accommodated in the birthing rooms. Two delivery rooms are readily available within the Childbirth Center for complicated deliveries or cesarean sections.

Recovery

As soon as possible after your baby’s birth, you will be encouraged to touch, hold and cuddle to begin the important process of bonding. Only two important procedures take priority over this reunion: removing any mucus that may interfere with your baby’s breathing and drying and covering the baby to prevent heat loss. You, the baby and the baby’s father will remain in the birthing room during this initial bonding period.

After your delivery, you may be assigned to one of our beautifully appointed private rooms. A refrigerator and microwave are available for your use. Each room can accommodate a cot for your partner and four rooms have double beds for partners who choose to remain overnight.

At the Childbirth Center, you may keep you baby with you as long as you desire. A nurse will assist you in learning about your newborn. When your baby is not with you, a modern spacious nursery is just down the hall.

Visiting policy

The baby’s father, siblings and grandparents are not considered visitors and may visit freely with you during your stay. Please remind visitors to wash their hands before holding the baby to protect against germs. Your partner is also welcome to stay overnight. Meals are available for overnight guests at a small charge. Please let your nurse know if someone is staying and desires a meal.

Meals

You will select and be served your meals daily by our dietary staff. Please let the nurse know of any dietary requirements or allergies you may have. You and your partner will also be served a gourmet celebration dinner, complete with flowers, as part of the celebration of the birth of your child. For children who have attended the Sibling Preparation Class, a birthday cake will be served at your convenience during your hospital stay.

Leaving the hospital

Prior to discharge from the hospital, your doctor and nurse will answer any questions and give you further instructions. You will discharged directly from the Childbirth Center. You and your new baby are normally discharged together. Connecticut law requires you to have an infant car seat for your trip home.

The staff at the Childbirth Center would like you to know we are here to make your childbirth experience a rewarding one. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to improve your stay with us.