Taking a hospital tour during your pregnancy is essential. Here are all the important questions you need to ask at the labor and delivery ward.
Is A Hospital Tour Necessary?
If you plan to have your baby in a hospital or birthing center then I strongly recommend you sign up for maternity hospital tour. You can book them in advance at a time to suit you and your partner. Most hospitals will have the tour information on their websites.
Visiting the hospital prior to the birth of your baby will allow you to become familiar with the environment in which you will deliver your baby. It will also allow you to time the journey and figure out the best possible route.
So you can make the most of this visit it important to gather as much information as you can. Preparing a list of questions is the best way to make sure you don’t leave anything out.
Here is a list of hospital tour questions you should consider asking. Take a good look through and pick which ones apply to you.
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Hospital Tour Questions You Need To Ask
What Will Happen When I Go Into Labor?
It is important you know the hospitals policies and procedures for when your labor begins. You need to make sure that you have the correct phone numbers for the labor ward and know exactly which entrance to use when you arrive.
You should also find out what parking facilities are available and if you need to pay for parking. Some of this information may change at night so make sure you find out if there is different policy for night time.
You will also need to find out exactly what paperwork you need to take with you and if they will have your notes ready when you get there.
Can you preregister to avoid waiting times? Is there a triage system or will you be taken straight to your room on arrival.
Will I Get A Private Room?
You may be allocated a private room automatically but you should definitely check this at your hospital tour just in case you need to ring in advance. You should also ask about bathroom facilities so you are prepared if you have to share these with other moms.
Ask if the room you are currently viewing is the same as what you will get when the time comes. You may need to be prepared for a smaller or more dated room. It is also important to know if you will be staying in the delivery room after you give birth or if you will be moved elsewhere.
It will also be helpful to check the prices of private rooms and if you are covered by your insurance.
How Many People Are Allowed In The Labor Room?
You will probably know by now who you want to be with you during the labor and delivery. If you would like more than one person to be with you check with the hospital so you know exactly how many people will be allowed in the labor room with you.
You also need to find out what facilities will be available for your birthing partner. Will they be able to stay with you the whole time, are there other spaces available to them, and will there be somewhere they can obtain food and drink?
What Birthing Aids Are Available?
You need to check that the hospital can provide any birthing aids that you require or will allow you to bring your own in with you. This may be equipment like a birthing ball, squat bars, chairs, and birthing stools. If you require the use of a birthing pool you will need to check that this will be available to you.
In your birth plan you will have what pain relief you require (if any) so you will need to ensure that the hospital can meet your needs. Ask about their policies on epidurals should you require one.
This question is worth asking even if you are not planning to use medication for pain relief as things can change pretty quickly during labor. It pays to be prepared for every eventuality.
Will I Be Able To Watch TV/Play Music?
Ask if there will be a television in your room should you wish to watch it. Labor can be a waiting game, especially if this is your first baby so watching a movie or two may help to pass the time.
The same goes for equipment to play music. If you are anything like me you will have a playlist made already. If these are not available check that you can bring your own in with you.
Also ask about anything else you may wish to bring from home to make your time more comfortable. This may be a special pillow or blanket, or something in particular you wish to eat or drink if you are allowed.
How Often Will I Be Examined During Labor?
During your hospital tour don’t forget to ask what you can expect from your treatment during labor. How closely will you be monitored and how often. What examinations can you expect and how often will they do pelvic exams.
Ask if you are able to leave the room during your labor if you wish to walk around and check that there is an area available for you to do this.
It is also a good idea to ask about the different positions for giving birth and if they are able to assist you with anything in particular you had in mind.
How Often Will My Baby Be Monitored?
It is a good idea to ask about their policy on fetal monitoring. How often will your baby’s vital signs be checked. Ask about the possibility of a wireless monitor if you wish you move around frequently.
If you do not want to wear a fetal monitor for the birth, ask if that can be an option.
Related Labor And Delivery Posts
How To Have An Easier Labor And Delivery
What You Need To Do In Preparation For Labor
10 Signs And Symptoms Of Labor You Need To Know
What Will Happen If I Require A C-Section?
Its important to plan for every eventuality and even if you are not having a planned c-section you should still be familiar with the procedure just in case.
Ask if the hospital will allow your birthing partner to be present for the procedure and if you can watch the procedure should you wish to. You should also ask what medication will be available to you before and after the procedure.
Find out if you will be able to have skin to skin contact with your baby straight after the birth and if your baby needs to leave the room can your partner go with them.
What Will Happen Immediately After The Birth?
If you have specific wishes regarding the birth then it is important to check that the hospital is able to comply. You should ask about delayed cord clamping and banking your baby’s cord blood.
You can also ask if they will allow you to take the placenta home if that is what you wish and if you will be allowed skin to skin contact straight after the birth.
What Help/Facillities Are Available For Feeding My Baby?
If you are planning to breastfeed your baby there are some important questions you should ask. Will there be anyone to assist you when feeding for the first time and is there a lactation consultant available at the hospital?
Find out if your baby will be able to stay in the room with you or if they will be brought to you for a feed from the nursery. If you require a breast pump ask if the hospital will provide you with one during your stay or if you need to provide your own.
If you are going to bottle feed your baby then its important to know exactly what equipment you need to take with you. Does the hospital provide bottles, formula etc.
What Are Your Policies On Post Delivery Care?
Postpartum care is essential for a new mom so it is important to ask about the care that will be available to you. Find out what facilities will be available to you after the birth, will you have private access to a bath or shower, and will a postpartum sitz bath be provided.
Ask if your partner can stay with you and what the length of your stay is likely to be. It is also a good idea to ask what pain relief options will be available to you during this time.
