Many pregnant women don’t think about touring the hospital that they are planning to deliver at; especially, a mom who has given birth before. When I was pregnant with my first child, I would have never thought about taking a tour at the hospital. I took a Lamaze class when I was pregnant with my daughter and as a class we took a tour of the labor and delivery ward and learned about the hospitals procedures.
I remember with my third pregnancy, I thought that because I was a seasoned mom that I really didn’t need take a tour at the hospital. However, I changed my mind and scheduled a tour, mostly because I wanted to learn about delivery options. I am glad that I did because it gave me an opportunity to learn more about the labor and delivery unit. I had a birth plan already mapped out in my mind, even though I didn’t write down my requests, I knew how I would like to labor.
Disclosure: This post is for informational purposes only. All opinions reflected in this post are my own.
Touring the hospital can give you the peace of mind that you choose the right hospital to deliver your child at. Also, it gives you the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the hospital so that when you come while in pain you will know where to go and what to expect.
7 comments
Great information. When we were expecting our first, we took the baby class and part of it was touring the hospital. It was helpful to see everything before we were stressed during delivery.
Good tips! We did the birthing class that shows you around. The class itself was pretty humorous for first time parents, but definitely helpful!
When it comes to childbirth and life…the more info. the better for me! Bring on the tours!
A hospital tour before giving birth is helpful, but not necessarily important. It does help assuage any unfounded fears. I guess it’s almost like how it helps actors to feel out the stage before the actual curtain call. You become less agitated when you’re able to visualize how things will go.
I agree that the tour was great to get to meet the staff and see what options were available. Speaking of… I am now at a new hospital. I had better arrange a tour when the time comes. 🙂
This is a great reminder for moms-to-be–even 2nd or 3rd time moms. I’m expecting my 3rd in May and I keep forgetting that I am going to have to do this again, because I changed OB practices and will be delivering at a different hospital. Thank you for posting this!
Your welcome. Congratulations on your new addition.