Checklist: Maternity Ward Tour

Hey, the next time you see this room, you'll be in labor. Get the details now.

Photo: Courtesy of St. Jude Medical Center, Fullerton, CA

Since getting your questions answered is the whole point of taking a maternity ward tour, planning them out beforehand is definitely a good idea. Here are a few to get you started:

[  ]  When we arrive, do we need to check in at the front desk, or can I waddle straight to the maternity ward?

[  ]  What are the policies on cameras and video cameras?

[  ]  Are cell phones allowed?

[  ]  Will baby be able to stay in my room the whole time?

[  ]  Can daddy stay the night?

[  ]  What are my chances for getting a private room? Will my insurance cover it?

[  ]  What sort of breastfeeding support is offered? How does it work?

[  ]  Where and when are my other children allowed to be with me?

[  ]  Is there any extra paperwork involved to get my partner’s name on the birth certificate? (If you aren't married)

[  ]  Can I pre-register a couple of weeks before delivery? (Getting some of the legal hoopla out of the way can be very freeing.)

-- Paula Kashtan

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