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Obstetrics Q and A
Choosing a hospital for delivery: what to look for
 Choosing where to deliver your baby is a decision almost as important as choosing your doctor. And sometimes the decisions go hand in hand—your doctor may deliver at just one or two hospitals. But as you consider your hospital choice, use this checklist of questions:
- Is the hospital mother-focused? Does the staff seem sensitive to and supportive of your needs? How will your birth partner and family participate in the birth experience?
- Is there a central phone number you can call for information, physician referral, class registrations, lactation support or other special needs?
- Does the hospital offer education customized to your needs, before and after the birth of the baby? Are there classes for your family, such as grandparenting classes?
- What type of specialty nursery care and security procedures does the hospital offer?
- Are there certified lactation nurses available to help you breastfeed?
- Are there support groups and help available for after pregnancy, for example new mother groups, postpartum depression support, or groups to support families who've had a premature baby or a stillbirth?
- What birthing options and areas are available? Does the hospital offer doula services or other support services during labor and the postpartum period?
- Is the hospital easy to find and reach with special parking arrangements for expectant parents and families?
Morning Sickness: Is there anything I can do about it?
Your morning sickness is a common result of a sudden surge of hormones. More than half of expectant mothers experience nausea and vomiting—some feel the effects all day. Usually about the fourth month, it will taper off. There is little threat to the pregnancy or the baby unless you lose too much weight. To prevent this from happening and to reduce your nausea, eat small meals throughout the day, avoid coffee, rich foods and foods with unpleasant odors. You may also want to eat more starchy foods. In the mornings, start slowly and calm your stomach by eating a bland snack. Don't take medications for morning sickness or try any herbal remedies without contacting your doctor.
Breech Position: What are the implications for the baby and me?
Most babies are born head first. But about three to four percent will be born in a breech position—the legs or buttocks will be born first. Decisions need to be made as to whether the baby is best delivered by a Cesarean section, a vaginal birth or if an attempt should be made to turn the baby.
The position of the baby can be changed by a method called external version. It is accomplished by the doctor placing his or her hands on the mother's abdomen and gently pushing the baby into a head-down position. If external version fails or is not attempted, the other options are an elective Cesarean section or a vaginal delivery. If the mother, baby and obstetrician all meet the right conditions, then there is no greater risk for the baby to be delivered vaginally. However, if circumstances are not optimal, then a Cesarean section should be performed. As with any other abdominal surgery, a Cesarean section involves greater risks for complications, longer recuperation and the possible need for Cesarean sections in future pregnancies.
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