By law, the expectant mother has the right to choose any maternity hospital she wishes. And, given the fact that you never know exactly what day the baby will decide to be born, it is better to take care of choosing a maternity hospital in advance.
It is better to choose a maternity hospital as early as possible, ideally in the middle of pregnancy. It will take a lot of time to collect information, study reviews, go on an excursion and meet doctors.
Why choose a maternity hospital yourself
First, you can never be 100% sure that everything will go smoothly and easily. Childbirth is an unpredictable process. Even if the entire pregnancy proceeded perfectly, no one is safe from complications during childbirth. And here you simply cannot do without qualified assistance and modern equipment.
Secondly, it is often possible to choose a doctor who will deliver the baby. Agree, it is much calmer when, in a difficult moment, a familiar person who knows your medical record and your body is nearby.
Finally, when the contractions begin, you will have one less reason to worry. You will know exactly who to call, where they will take you and who will meet you there.
What are the criteria for choosing a maternity hospital
How long will it take to get there. Of course, childbirth, especially the first, will not end in a couple of hours after the start. Still, it is better to wait out the contractions in a comfortable ward under the supervision of doctors, and not in the car, looking at the frightened husband.
Conditions of stay in the wards. How many people are the wards designed for? Are there single rooms if you want to be alone with your child? Is it even possible to stay with a newborn. Condition of chambers, beds and shower room. What of the things you can take with you, and what will be provided on the spot.
Technical equipment of the delivery room. How is the hall equipped, will they be able to help there in an emergency, what anesthesia options are possible. If you are planning a joint childbirth with your husband or non-traditional, for example, vertical childbirth, it is also worth asking about this in advance.
The children's department is equally important. Be sure to find out if the hospital has a qualified neonatologist, what kind of nurses there are and how they handle children.
Some maternity hospitals specialize in cardiovascular diseases, some in child pathologies. If there are any problems or complications, it is better to give birth in the maternity hospital that is intended for this.
When choosing a particular doctor, find out about his reputation. Meet to discuss your birthing plan, expectations and concerns. Ask about the method of contacting him and the payment for services.
After you have decided on the maternity hospital, do not forget to find out when it is closed for the sink. If these times are the same as the expected due date, choose a fallback just in case.
