Labor and delivery

Compassionate birthing care in Ware County

At the Birthing Center at Memorial Satilla Health, we know that every baby is special and every birth is unique. We’ve created a maternity unit with your needs in mind so you and your family can share one of life's most amazing moments. The Birthing Center features spacious rooms, comfortable amenities and 24-hour family-centered care coordinated by our medical teams.

Your Birthing Center team

Whether you are expecting your first baby or the newest addition to your family, our team is committed to providing you and your baby with a healthy labor and delivery experience. Your birthing team may include:

• Anesthesiologists
• Lactation consultants
• Neonatologists
• Nurses
• Obstetricians
• Pediatricians

Pre-register for your maternity stay

We recommend that you pre-register for your maternity stay at Memorial Satilla Health during the seventh month of your pregnancy. This will help the registration process go as smooth as possible when you go into labor.

You can visit the registration desk Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 4:00pm to pre-register. You will need to have your insurance information with you.

Maternity class

We want to help you be as prepared as possible for your birth experience. Our maternity class will help you and your family prepare for childbirth and learn what to expect after your baby is born. Topics include:

• Breastfeeding
• Cesarean sections (C-sections)
• Diet and exercise
• Preparing for labor and delivery
• Relaxation techniques
• Vaginal deliveries

Our childbirth class also includes a tour of the Birthing Center. To register for a maternity class, please visit our calendar and events page.

Labor and delivery experience

Once you arrive at the hospital, please come to the emergency room where we will admit you and take you to the labor and delivery unit.

Once you are admitted, our labor and delivery team will be there to guide you through the birthing process. There is an operating room within the Birthing Center for maternity patients requiring a C-section.

Mother-baby care in the hospital

After your baby is born, a doctor or nurse will perform a series of tests to determine your baby's physical condition. You and your baby will have bonding time prior to being moved to a large, private postpartum room within the Birthing Center.

Your baby's health

After your baby is born, we will determine their Apgar score, a routine test to assess your baby's overall health and identify if additional medical attention is needed. We will also give your newborn a vitamin K shot, eye drops and other newborn screening tests. Your baby may receive a hearing test and a hepatitis B vaccine as well.

Your doctor and pediatrician will visit daily to keep you informed of your own and your baby’s progress. During your maternity stay, meals are served in the room, and a menu selection is provided.

Bonding with your baby

It is important to keep you and your baby together as soon and as much as possible after they are born. Our goal is that healthy mothers and babies stay together in the same room whenever possible. However, the nursery is available if needed. Our team of doctors, nurses and lactation consultants will be there as personal resources for you and your baby.

Breastfeeding support

Breastfeeding is not always easy for new moms and their babies. We offer support services to help you overcome challenges and gain confidence in this new role. Nurses in the Birthing Center are available to you during your maternity stay for breastfeeding help.

Visitor information

Family and friends are an important part of your new baby’s life and are welcome to visit during our visiting hours, which are 7:00am to 9:00pm.

Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

If your baby needs special care, the pediatrician may admit them to the Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The neonatologists and neonatal team at our NICU have special training and equipment to monitor and care for your newborn 24/7.

Only parents and grandparents are permitted to visit in the NICU. The pediatrician will determine when it is safe for the baby to be discharged.

Bringing your baby home

When it’s time to go home, you’ll be provided with discharge and prescription instructions from your doctor and your baby’s healthcare provider.

State law requires that all infants be fastened in a car seat before leaving the hospital. Be sure to have your baby’s car seat purchased and properly installed before the big day.

We will be happy to answer any questions you may have about taking your baby home. Our team will also be available to help with information regarding insurance, home health and other community resources.