Things to Consider When Picking a Hospital for Your Baby's Delivery

by POPSUGAR Moms 7

Be prepared. It's the motto of the Boy Scouts and a worthy mommy mantra. The best thing a mom-to-be can do is prepare for what lies ahead and arm herself with backup. Before you create a birth plan, pick a hospital to deliver the baby in, or decide on a home birth, you should tour the hospitals in your area.

A.D.A.M suggests paying close attention to:

• Preregistration and check-in procedures
• Suggestions for what to bring to the hospital
• Policies on walking around, eating, and drinking
• Access for the mother's "birthing coach" or other support people
• Visiting hours for family and friends
• Availability of neonatal intensive care facilities and trained staff

For five additional items to look out for, read more.

• Childbirth classes offered by the hospital (e.g., labor and delivery, baby care, first aid, breastfeeding)
• Security procedures (e.g., wristbands)
• Use of video cameras
• Pain-relief options
• Check-out procedures

Source