How to choose the hospital where you will give birth

Choose the hospital where you will deliver your baby is a very important decision that each mother soon has to make. There are so many different aspects and factors to consider like for example what kind of assistance you are seeking, what kind of delivery you want and the comfort of being in a hospital near home. Depending on your personality and on the state of the pregnancy, each woman has different needs anyway even though the final goal is the same: identify the ideal hospital in which she can feel comfortable during a such important and delicate moment.
In order for you to choose the location which is most acceptable for you, we would like to give you some advice to take into consideration that, together with your instinct and your doctor’s advices may help you to make the right choice.

Public Hospital or Private Clinic?

One of the first questions you have to answer is definitely understanding if you would prefer a public hospital rather that a private clinic or the other way round.

Hospitals: they are definitely the biggest and more equipped structures in case of emergencies, for both mother and baby; when it comes to choosing a hospital, your pregnancy should be regarded as a "medical condition," therefore the choice you make should be based on medical adequacy. Your natural inclination might be towards a small and friendly hospital, but choosing a big hospital that has all the adequate units to deal with any problem that might arise has clear advantages. A big hospital doesn't necessarily mean that the staff will be unfriendly or that it will be an unpleasant experience. Hospitals that use the latest neonatal-care technology are also a plus, in case you are worried about more severe complications. Probably the most important consideration in choosing a hospital would be the amount of experience this hospital has. The more experience a hospital has in dealing with special conditions and complications, the better they get at reacting to such situations. Moreover, it would be advisable to choose a hospital not too far from home as it will definitely be easier to reach.

Private clinics: they are in general smaller, comfortable and have a more relaxed atmosphere than a medical institution and you can also keep the baby next you in her/his cot. but everything will be at your expense. Though some clinics may be equipped to handle emergency cases, your midwife should be prepared to transfer you to a hospital if the need arises. Private clinics are a good option for those who want less medical intervention, but do not want to give birth at home. Be sure to check out how the centre in your area is run, what facilities are available and the staff before finalizing your choice.

What you have to consider when choosing

After you have decided what kind of hospital is more suitable according to your needs, it is very important to consider some other aspects regarding the actual delivery: to help you making the final decision.
But what are actually these important factors to take into consideration? Let’s have a look together:

- the possibility of having an active labor, in order for you to choose the best position during birth. The positions that you choose for labor and birth are important. They will help you be more comfortable during the labor process. Some positions will also help speed the process of labor. Many of these positions can be done with or without the help of your partner, husband, doula or nurse. Practicing them prior to labor will also make them seem familiar and more comfortable and natural. Birth positions may vary: you can choose a normal delivery on the bed, sideways, standing or even water birth.

- Episiotomy and oxytocin: an episiotomy is a surgical incision in the perineum (the area of skin between the vagina and the anus). It is also a large controversy in childbirth today. Episiotomy is not always necessary and should not be considered routine. So make sure that the hospital you are going to choose does not consider it as a standard procedure. Oxytocin is a hormone that helps to provoke uterus contraction and then start the labor; it is given to women with the intention of increasing the contractions.

- Epidural and anesthetics: the decision to have an epidural in your labor is best made once labor is well established. Before labor it is best to keep an open mind about all of your options, including an epidural. If you are at the hospital and you would like to have an epidural, you will probably have a consultation with the anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist before getting an epidural.

- Caesarian section: is a surgical procedure in which incision are made through a mother's abdomen and uterus to deliver one or more babies. It is usually performed when a vaginal delivery would put the baby's or mother's life or health at risk, although in recent times it has been also performed upon request for childbirths that could otherwise have been natural.

- Make sure the institution you choose is well equipped in case of emergencies and if there are neonatologists and pediatricians available 24/7.

- Minors factors: it essential to be able to immediately breastfeed your baby and let your partner assists you during labor and birth. Check with how many mothers you will share the room, visiting time and if it is possible to keep the pram next to you.

If after having considered all these factors you still have any other doubt, just let your instinct guide you and choose the hospital where you feel more comfortable and best satisfies all your needs; moreover, just remember that you can ask to visit the hospital and see with your eyes where your baby is going to be born, it can be really worth it!