Once your pregnancy is confirmed, you’ll have a lot of questions and choices to make. One of the most crucial decisions would be that of a birthing centre. There are a lot of factors to consider while choosing the right birthing centre, but here we are going to emphasise the most important ones.
1. Clinical excellence
Ensure that the birthing centre has a team of experienced doctors and supporting staff to guide you through your labour and birthing journey. Hospitals with recognition tend to have better infrastructure, more success stories and modern treatment protocols. Visit the centre and talk to the medical staff before shortlisting it.
2. Success stories and testimonials
A good birthing centre and medical staff will definitely have appreciations from their satisfied customers. Do look out for testimonials and success stories that will give you an insider’s point of view through the personal experience of other women and families.
3. Pre and Post natal classes
Keeping your body healthy before, during and after pregnancy should always be the priority. Make sure the birthing centre you choose provides pregnancy health & wellness classes that includes knowledge about vaccines, nutrition, weight management, chronic disease management and other essential information.
4. Birthing techniques
Birthing is a cherishable experience and your birthing centre should help you plan out all the available options for your delivery. They should help you create a birth plan on how you wish to deliver your baby. From high-risk pregnancy facilities to natural birthing or c-section birthing facilities, make sure if they can accommodate you in every scenario.
5. Critical care nursery
A critical care nursery includes a team of expert neonatologists and nursing staff trained to take care of premature babies who require special attention. For something as special as a childbirth, you need to make sure you are in the right, safe and expert hands.
6. Travel distance
Needless to say, the closer the birthing centre is, the more convenient it will be for you to go in to give birth to your baby. This is even more crucial if it is going to be a high risk pregnancy.
7. Postpartum care for mothers and babies
Once the delivery is done, what matters is the postpartum care facilities in the birthing centre. Do check the postpartum care unit, as it should have a comfortable ambience and a supporting nursing team that guides you and answers your query on childcare and breastfeeding.
8. Breastfeeding support
As you know breastfeeding is crucial for the baby, you should ensure that the birthing centre has a lactation centre with certified lactation consultants who can address complex issues and queries that may arise. The centre should also conduct lactation classes to help you feel more confident and informed about the process.
Remember that it’s going to be an experience that will be imprinted in your mind forever, so make sure you do your research thoroughly and well in advance to opt for the right birthing centre to make this journey a memorable and comfortable one.
Disclaimer: Indian Health Bureau does not claim any responsibility for the information contained in this article. The information may not hold good for everyone. The post is for general awareness only and should not be construed as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Please consult your doctor to know what is good for you.
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