Fair Oaks is better than some other places in the region, although it's no Loudoun Birthing Inn. The Birthing Inn is as close as you can get to an independent, midwife-run birthing center without being one, and happens to be attached to the closest hospital to our house. Unfortunately however, even though the two hospitals are both Inova, our HMO does not work with Loudoun. It's Fair Oaks or nothing.
On the bright side, my Doctor has assured me that she works with patients who want natural childbirth, and that the hospital is more accomodating of natural childbirth than several others in the region (particularly Fairfax. She's told me twice how the nurses there push drugs at the first sign of pain, they're all about the drugs). Other plusses:
- According to their website, they do their best to "minimize separation after birth" of mother and child.
- On-site lactation consultants, which I hope means they will help you start breastfeeding as soon as possible after birth.
- Free WiFI.
- Free valet parking.
- The cafeteria is open from 7am to 6:30pm. LOL!
1 comment:
Even if not at your hospital of choice, you can still have the birth you want. Here's some advice you probably already know. Take what you can use, junk the rest! :)
Have a "Birth Plan" arrangement with your doctor. This is a piece of paper that your doctor and you are willing to sign about how you want your birth to go,making room for the unexpected and emergencies. This is kept in your file so that no one can say "Oh, I didn't know!" Keep a copy with you so that you have it when you go to the hospital and they will know your expectations and wishes. Vocalize your preferences when you arrive for delivery, and request that they read your plan. Put in there everything you hope for, including minimal separation and breastfeeding immediately after birth. I've had some practice with this,and as long as you are understanding that the doctor seeks the best care for you and your baby, and you're not going to fight the doctor, just want your wishes considered, things run pretty smooth. Most hospitals have also seen this before, so most are now learning how to work with the mother's wishes.
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