Most hospitals and birthing centers have designated times for expectant parents to tour their facilities. Be sure to call in advance and schedule a time to take a tour. Ask if it is possible to have someone from the labor and delivery staff with you to show you around, and to answer your questions. Some hospitals and birthing centers even hold an open house type event where expectant parents are allowed to do an open tour as well as meet other expectant parents, register for prizes, speak with lactation consultants and a variety of other things to familiarize parents with the hospital or birthing center.
It is important for expectant parents to write down any questions they may have, before taking a tour of their chosen hospital or birthing center. Writing questions down will ensure that no question will be forgotten and go unanswered. Here are some excellent questions to ask:
1. Will I be allowed to film and videotape the birth? 2. Is there an emergency OR staff ready and available in case the need for an emergency C-section arises? 3. Is there a separate birthing room, or will the labor and delivery occur in the same room? 4. How many people will be allowed to attend the birth? 5. Are Doulas well accepted? (If choosing to use a Doula) 6. How many visitors are allowed during labor? 7. Will my other children be allowed to attend the birth? 8. Are birthing balls, whirlpool tubs, or other special birthing aids available? 9. Will I be allowed to walk the halls freely during labor?
The nine questions listed above are only a few out of the many questions expectant parents need to ask in order to acclimate themselves with the hospital or birthing center. Receiving answers to impending questions such as those listed above will enable parents to prepare ahead of time for their labor and delivery options as well as ensure a smooth delivery.
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