Birth Plans

Birth plans are not required. If it lessens your anxiety or helps you communicate your concerns with us and/or your support person, feel free to write down your plan and we will review it with you during an office visit. As obstetricians, we are exceedingly aware that plans sometimes need to change despite our best efforts. Our plan for you is a healthy mom and baby above all else.

Anesthesia

It is your choice whether to have an epidural or IV medications during labor or to labor without medications. We are fully supportive of your choices, but we will request that you have an IV (in case of emergencies or for other commonly needed medications or fluids) during labor.

Classes
  • Register for classes through the hospital website.
  • We recommend the following classes for new parents:
    • Infant Care / CPR
    • Tour Labor & Delivery
    • Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding

The current recommendation is for 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding (giving your baby breastmilk and nothing else), and 12 months of breastfeeding total (in addition to adding in foods at 4-6 months). We want to provide you with all the support you need to do the hard work in meeting these goals.

  • Your insurance likely covers a breast pump for breast milk expression. You can order these during your pregnancy, usually after 28 weeks. We are happy to provide a prescription, if needed. Check with your insurance regarding which brands and types of pumps are covered for you.
  • Breastfeeding classes for new parents are highly encouraged. We recommend bringing along your partner or support person.
  • Both hospitals we are affliated with have lactation specialists on staff that can assist with breastfeeding while in the hospital.
Vaccines

Vaccination during pregnancy is the standard of care for the following 2 vaccines:

  • Influenza (Flu) Vaccine
    • The flu can become a very serious illness in pregnant women and babies. It is critical for you to protect yourself and your baby during and after pregnancy. Please make sure that you partner and other caregivers receive the vaccine prior to caring for your baby.
  • TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis)
    • The TDAP vaccine is given in every pregnancy during the third trimester even if you have had it before.

    • Please make sure that your partner and other caregivers for your baby are up to date, as whooping cough (pertussis) can be fatal for a newborn and babies cannot be vaccinated until they reach two months of age

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended. We are following CDC and ACOG guidance on this topic.

Labor Precautions

Specific instructions will be given during your 35-37 week office visit.

  • Pre-register for the hospital on their website.
  • Directions are posted on the hospital websites. Both hospitals have dedicated entrances for Labor and Delivery and Obstetric Emergency.

  • If you are having a planned Cesarean delivery, this will be scheduled at your 28-32 week visit.

Pediatricians

Please choose a pediatrician by 36 weeks and inform us of your choice. Heritage Medical Associates has five pediatric offices available.