Choosing the best childbirth center to welcome your baby into the world is a big decision, and let’s be honest—it can feel a bit overwhelming. Whether you’re searching for a hospital or a birthing center, it’s important to choose a team and facility that aligns with your birth plan and personal needs. From pain management options to postpartum care, you want an environment that truly fits your needs (and your vibe). The good news? If your provider delivers at more than one hospital, you get to choose the facility that feels like the best fit for you and your growing family.
Here are a few key things to keep in mind when picking the best childbirth center:
1. A Supportive and Skilled Team
Your care team plays a crucial role in your birth experience, so it’s important to feel confident in their expertise and support.
“The right team can make all the difference,” says Batsheva ‘Eva’ Bane, Certified Nurse Midwife at Mountainside Medical Center. “It’s important to choose providers who not only listen and make you feel comfortable but also have the expertise to support the unique needs of new mothers.”
Here’s who you’ll want on your side:
- Experienced Labor & Delivery Nurses: Nurses who specialize in maternity and newborn care can be game-changers. A great nurse brings both expertise and a calming presence when you need it most.
- Board-Certified Obstetricians or Midwives: Whether you prefer an OBGYN or a certified nurse midwife, it’s all about finding the right fit for you. OBGYNs handle both routine and high-risk deliveries, while midwives focus on low-risk births with a more holistic touch.
- Pediatric Experts Ready to Care for Baby: Right after birth (and even during delivery, if needed), having pediatricians or neonatologists available to check on your little one gives you valuable peace of mind. They’ll handle routine newborn care and be ready to step in if extra help is needed.
- Doula Support If You Want It: Looking for extra hands-on support during labor? A doula can be a wonderful addition to your team. You can find one during pregnancy or ask if your birth center offers doula services. They’ll be there to guide and comfort you—and your partner—through the whole experience.
2. Services That Fit Your Birth Plan
Every birth is unique, and your childbirth center should support your preferences every step of the way.
- Flexible Birth Preferences: Want to try different birthing positions? Prioritize immediate skin-to-skin contact? Delay cord clamping? A great center will respect your decisions and help make them happen.
- Pain Management Options: Whether you’re interested in natural methods (like water immersion or massage) or plan to get an epidural, make sure the center supports your choices.
- Childbirth Preparation Classes: Childbirth prep starts long before your due date. Look for a center that offers classes on everything from labor and delivery to infant care and breastfeeding.
3. Comfortable, Family-Friendly Spaces
When you’re in labor, comfort matters. Here are a few things to consider:
- Prioritize Privacy & Bonding: Choose a center with private birthing suites—they can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel during labor and recovery. Plus, make sure you have the option to keep your baby in the same room with you if you prefer.
- Your Family’s Comfort: A great childbirth center puts you first, but your family matters too. Does your partner have somewhere comfortable to rest? Can they stay overnight? Are there flexible visitation policies? These little details can make a big difference when you’re in the thick of it.
4. Prepared for the Unexpected
No one wants to think about emergencies, but it’s important to know the facility is prepared for any situation.
- Emergencies Are Unpredictable: While you might plan for a straightforward birth, complications can arise unexpectedly. Knowing there’s a highly skilled team and the right equipment on hand provides a sense of security.
- NICU Preparedness: For moms worried about preterm delivery or potential complications with their baby, having a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) or a transfer plan to a higher-level facility can be a major deciding factor. NICU levels range from I (basic care for healthy, full-term babies) to III (advanced care for preemies or babies with serious conditions).
- Round-the-Clock-Care: See if your facility offers 24/7 OB coverage and staff trained in handling obstetric emergencies. You should rest assured that care is always available, no matter the day or time.
Mountainside Medical Center has a Level II NICU. Our experienced team can easily connect you to a higher NICU level of care if required. You can rest easy knowing your baby is in good hands.
5. Exceptional Postnatal Care for You and Your Baby
Your experience doesn’t end once your baby is born—postnatal care is key to helping you both thrive.
- For You: Your recovery matters. Ask about postpartum monitoring to make sure your health is prioritized and any potential issues are caught early.
- For Baby: From newborn screenings and vaccinations to bonding support, your care team should set your little one up for the best start.
- Breastfeeding Help: Breastfeeding can be tricky, even for experienced moms. Look for a center with lactation consultants to help you navigate those early days with confidence.
At the end of the day, you deserve a childbirth experience that’s calm, supportive, and focused on what’s most important: you and your baby.
Schedule a Tour Today!
Ready to see how Mountainside Medical Center fits into your birth plan? Schedule a tour and learn how we’re here to make this journey as smooth and special as it can be.