Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have birthing tubs?
Currently, we do not have birthing tubs; however, we offer showers in every patient room for your labor comfort and convenience.
Is my doula counted as one of the three in the room?
Yes, if you have a doula for support that individual will be counted as one of your three individuals.
Does St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center offer delayed cord clamping?
As long as your baby is stable, delayed cord clamping can be used in most deliveries.
If there is no one to watch my children when I come to OB triage are they allowed to stay with me?
Yes, your children can stay with you while you contact another adult to come for them.
Can my children stay with me overnight in the Mother Baby Unit?
Due to COVID-19, there is a limit on the number visitors. Please visit our COVID-19 resource page to stay abreast of visitor restrictions. Under normal operations, children 18 and under can visit during regular visiting hours but are not allowed to stay overnight.
Can my child be with me during labor?
In most cases, your child can be in the room (a)fter the COVID-19 pandemic as long as there is someone to supervise them. Please discuss your situation with your charge nurse and attending physician.
Where can my family and friends park?
Your visitors are encouraged to park in the 6th Avenue garage. This garage offers the most direct route to Labor and Delivery. Your coach should accompany you when arriving at the Mercy Lobby for check-in.
Is there another entrance other than the Mercy Lobby?
OB patients are encouraged to use the Mercy Lobby located on Thomas between 3rd and 5th Avenues; however, the Emergency Department is always an option which is located on 3rd Avenue and Earll Avenue.
How long will I be in the hospital?
Every patient is different, your stay will depend on your specific situation. Our average length of stay for a vaginal delivery is 1-2 days. The average length of stay for a cesarean is 2-4 days.
What are the visiting hours?
When in labor, visiting hours do not apply. Our visiting guidelines for that area are 3 persons at the bedside at any one time, making sure there is always enough room to move safely in the room and maintain patient privacy. When transferred to the Mother Baby unit, visiting hours are 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. On this unit, one person can be with you the entire time and the baby will be rooming in with you. We ask that all visitors are well. Currently, we have implemented temporary visitor restrictions due to the COVID-19, click here to learn more.
Do I have to have an IV in labor?
Not necessarily. Your midwife or doctor can discuss IV placement with you once admitted. Standards of care for some conditions or inductions of labor recommend IV access be present.
Do I have to be on the monitor continuously?
Not necessarily. Standards of care are to obtain a 20-minute tracing every hour, and to listen every 5 minutes when pushing. For more information, talk to your attending nurse.