There are probably many questions that you may have about exactly what happens in the hospital during labor and delivery, as well as after the baby is born. It is only natural to have these questions, especially if you have never given birth before or if you are giving birth in a different place than you did previously. One thing that you may want to learn about in advance of your arrival at the hospital is what your hospital’s policy is regarding “rooming in”.
Many times, a baby is born only to be whisked away to a nursery shortly thereafter. While you may think that that’s okay, that you’ll be tired anyways after giving birth and could probably use a little break before your parenting duties officially begin, you may want to think about and advocate for things to go differently at your birth. The minutes and hours after birth are a unique window of opportunity for babies to bond with their parents. It is possible to delay many tests and procedures for hours, sometimes even until the next day. Other tests such as APGAR scoring and many other procedures can be performed right in the birthing room, if the hospital staff know in advance that that is what you want and they bring in the necessary equipment. Even with a cesarean birth, you and your partner can advocate for as little separation as possible.
If you plan to breastfeed your baby, those moments after giving birth are a critical point in your nursing relationship. When a baby is born, it is only natural for them to be confused and hungry. It is also natural for a mother to want to nurse her baby as soon as she sees them. Even if your baby remains a little confused or is not very hungry, simply putting him on your chest and letting him snuggle with you is something that allows the two of you to connect in a way that you have not connected before. There have been many studies that show that too much separation between a baby and its mother shortly after birth can be detrimental to both mother and baby.
When you approach your birth with the intention that your baby will remain in your room after the birth, and you inform hospital staff of your desire to have that happen, it should come as no surprise to them. Many mothers are requesting that their babies remain in their rooms with them after they are born, and it is becoming common procedure at more and more hospitals and birthing centers. There are places that have yet to make it their practice, though, so make sure that you know what the practice is where you plan to give birth so that you can make plans to ensure that your baby stays with you as much as possible.
Photo by anitapeppers on morguefile.com.