Delivery and coronavirus: Answers to common questions

Every birth is unique. This momentous time in a family’s life remains as special and unique to us as it is to those we care for.

While it’s true that moms can expect some extra precautions in light of COVID-19, you can count on us to create a safe, compassionate delivery experience. Our facility and health network is one of the safest possible places you can choose for your delivery, and our staff is well-trained in labor support and infection prevention.

With that said, we know many of our moms-to-be (and dads!) have questions about what their pregnancy and birth experience will be like during the pandemic. To help address these questions and concerns, we have answered some of the most common questions below.

Answers to common questions about pregnancy and delivering your baby

Q: I am early in my pregnancy and was looking forward to a tour of the hospital. Can I still participate in a tour?

A: To maintain safe COVID-19 practices, we only offer tours at our birthing center for two individuals at a time. Call (912) 287-2784 to find out more about scheduling a tour.

Q: I was scheduled to attend classes next week. Can I still attend? How will I know what to do in labor if I haven’t attended a class?

A: We have not canceled our child birthing classes, but they are offered to a limited amount of patients. If you would like additional help from a healthcare professional, please call (912) 287-2784.

Q: Will I be able to have a support person with me during labor?

A: Laboring moms/new moms may still have one birth partner (your visitor) while you are in the hospital with us. It will need to be the same visitor the whole time you are with us. If any visitor screens positive for respiratory illness, he or she will not be allowed to enter the hospital.

Q: Should I go to my next OB appointment, and will my experience be different in the midst of COVID-19?

A: It is very important to follow through with all of your OB appointments. Please contact your OB to determine what to expect at your appointment.

Telemedicine has made it possible to have virtual appointments; however, you will need to check with your own provider for direction.

Q: Is it still safe to have an ultrasound?

A: Contact your delivery provider for specific advice on attending your ultrasound. If you do have an ultrasound, most offices are limiting the number of people in the office to decrease the potential spread of the virus.

In many cases, imaging departments will provide video and/or pictures that you can take with you to share with friends or family that cannot attend with you in person.

Q: Is there anything I need to be concerned about regarding exposure to COVID-19 when I give birth at the hospital?

A: Our hospitals are among the safest places you could choose to deliver your baby. Our staff is trained on best practices to prevent infection and offer labor support during birth.

We have a number of screening questions in place for all patients and visitors before entering the building. This is precautionary and helps maintain the safety of all involved, and it limits the spread of any potential infectious illnesses.

Please refer to our website or contact your OB for further information.

Q: How will my birth experience be different if I tested positive for COVID-19?

A: If you are (or potentially could be) COVID-19 positive when you deliver, a hospital or accredited birthing center is still one of the safest places to give birth, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Our implementation of the latest CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) guidelines and exceptional Labor and Delivery team will be dressed in appropriate PPE to ensure you and your baby are safe.

Q: Can I FaceTime during my labor or use another app?

A: We encourage you to use your personal device and connect with loved ones not able to be with you in the hospital. If your delivery-support partner is not feeling well or if you would like additional support, we allow technology during delivery including FaceTime and Skype. However, we do not allow videotaping during delivery.

Q: I have other children—is there a place they can safely be at the hospital during my delivery?

A: Children are not allowed in the hospital at this time. It is important for you to make safe childcare plans for your children.

Compassionate care and exceptional service

The labor and delivery process may look a little different in these times, but our dedication and commitment are unchanged. We are devoted to providing compassionate care and exceptional service to every patient. And your child’s birthday is a very special day. Our facility is well-equipped to support you and your baby, and our highly-trained staff will do their best to listen to you and honor your personal preferences to the best of our ability.

If you have any questions or concerns, please consult with your healthcare provider and/or look into our virtual class and tour offerings. For additional information and resources, visit the CDC’s pregnancy and breastfeeding during COVID-19 guidelines.