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Do
You Really Know Your Hospital?
One of the more
common upsets for laboring couples is a last minute surprise on
the part of the hospital.
Couples are often told from hospital staff that they can have
the options that they want, but when they show up at the
hospital, they are surprised to find out that there are
extenuating circumstances that do not allow for their wishes.
Obviously, these surprises have a big impact on the type of
birthing experience the couple wanted.
When choosing a
doctor, a couple should also interview the hospital that the
doctor uses. A doctor may be "fabulous," but it is the
hospital that really determines the experience.
When asking
questions about a hospital, be very specific. When
asking if they allow the options that you want, don’t just
accept a yes or no answer. Ask under what circumstances an
option may be unavailable or not allowed.
Here are some
examples of “misunderstandings” with hospitals:
-
Does the
baby stay with mom the whole time?
This is also referred to as “Rooming In”. While hospitals
offer this, many don’t tell you that they still want to take
the baby to the nursery for a “short time” for various
procedures or observation before the baby can stay with you.
-
Are couples
allowed to photograph and video the birth?
Some hospitals don’t allow full frontal shots or footage of
the delivery. There is at least one hospital in the LA area
that does not allow any photos of the delivery itself and the
video camera must be off during the delivery and during any
other procedures.
-
Does the
hospital have lactation consultants?
Most do, but on a very part time basis. Chances are you’ll
miss her if you deliver during her off time.
So, if you have some specific ideas about how you want to
deliver your baby, be sure that your hospital as well as
your doctor will support your choices. And ask a lot of
questions!
This Belly Scoop has
been sponsored by Margie Levy, mother of two and a DONA
certified doula providing supportive doula services for labor
and delivery. She practices in the greater Los Angeles area and
can be reached at 818-994-6800 or through her website at
www.supportivedoula.com.
Margie has so much
information to share so call her today for a free consultation.
It's a chance for you to get to know her and see if she can help
you realize the birth you want for your child. (She also
is experienced in massage, aromatherapy, reiki, hypnosis,
relaxation, breathing.... need we say more??) |
Margie Levy,
supportive labor and delivery doula
www.supportivedoula.com |
