Today there are many options for childbirth. It is up to you to decide whether or not you would like to use pain relief medication, whether you would like your partner to be with you throughout the birth and even whether you would like visitors while you are in labor. We encourage you to discuss the type of delivery experience you would like to have with your physician early in your pregnancy. Provided that you, your practitioner and the nurse taking care of you are in agreement and the situation allows, we will try to accommodate your wishes.

More than 75% of all women who deliver babies at Long Island Jewish have taken a childbirth preparation course. Although it is not mandatory, it is extremely advantageous for you and your partner or coach to be as well-prepared as possible for this new experience. Fathers are permitted to attend all pre-arranged or elective Cesarean section births as medically indicated. Fathers may attend emergency Cesarean section births at the discretion of the attending physician and where general anesthesia is not used.

In the LDR or delivery room, in addition to your obstetrician and nurse, there will be an anesthesiologist and/or a certified registered nurse anesthetist if you request pain control. If your pregnancy or delivery is considered high-risk there will also be a pediatrician present to care for your newborn immediately after birth.

In compliance with the Patients' Bill of Rights, patient information is kept confidential by hospital staff. Information about your condition may only be released by you or your coach.

After Delivery

Immediately after delivery, you will remain in the recovery area for approximately one-and-one-half hours. Again, at the discretion of your physician and nurse and in accordance with your wishes, you may have visitors while in the recovery area. When your condition allows, you will be transferred to the postpartum maternity unit, where you will spend the remainder of your stay. Your newborn will spend their first three to four hours in the nursery where they can be closely monitored and assessed. After this time, they will be brought to you for feedings.