We have no doubt that a princess would feel at home in our House and Garden birthing suite with its country English decor and canopy bed. A jacuzzi awaits to soothe away the discomforts of labor, and this picture perfect setting is complete with a cozy sitting room for family members to relax. The two comfortable chairs serve a dual purpose when converted to twin beds for grandma or a youngster to stay overnight. Dad, of course, is welcome to sleep over with mom.
Making baby's birth a family affair is exciting to think about, but you will first want your obstetrician/midwifes' full support, as well as a preparation and education for yourself and your family. Parenting and Sibling Classes presented by the hospital or by your private care giver will encourage their fullest participation before, during labor and delivery.
CAREFULLY CONSIDER THE CRITERIA FOR NATURAL CHILDBIRTH WITH YOUR CARE GIVER
You may have heard a birthing suite or birthing room referred to as a LDRP which means that labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum care - all take place in the same place. Because of this, women eligible for LDRP deliveries need to be in optimal health and not considered a high risk pregnancy. They and their doctors fully anticipate a normal and natural, vaginal delivery free of complications.
Mom needs to be aware that natural childbirth means that she is eligible to receive analgesic medications for pain relief, but not anesthesia or epidural. Routinely, 80 percent of the moms who give birth at Staten Island University Hospital receive epidurals for pain.
Once you and your doctor or midwife have reached a decision, you can relax, feeling assured that care in our birthing suite is concerned, professional and of the highest quality. You can expect our staff to respond with understanding and guidance through all of the physiologic and developmental changes that occur during every stage of labor, birth, and the post-partum period. Rely on staff too for important advice on newborn care.
IT'S ONLY FAIR
Use of the Birthing Suite is on a first-come, first served basis and for a one-day stay. The cost is reimbursable by many medical insurance/managed care providers.