Labor and Delivery Units
Each doula has a resource list to give clients. The resource list is a categorized list of resources expectant parents may need or want. I will start the Wisdom The Sweetness Newsletter by reviewing the categories in the resource list I provide my clients. I will start with Labor and Delivery Units, since that seems to be the unfinalized decision expectant parents still are mulling when they reach out to me.
What’s Important
C-Section rate
Induction rate
Breastfeeding rate
Is the hospital Baby Friendly?
Why it’s important
Cesarean Sections (C-Sections) are major abdominal surgery and come with the risks of surgical complications. Additionally, the “pushing” that goes on during a vaginal delivery opens the lungs of infants so they can take their first breath on their own. With C-sections, the healthcare provider commonly must suction the infant’s airways so that first breath can be taken.
While sometimes medically necessary, inductions are viewed as trying to unnaturally force labor along. Because inductions go against the individual birthing process, they often lead to a ‘cascade’ of medical interventions to continue pushing the labor along. This has been described by some mothers as painful and traumatic.
Breastfeeding bolsters the infant’s health in many ways. Infants are born with an underdeveloped immune system. Breastfeeding is a means by which a mother can pass her immunity onto her baby. Also, breast milk is composed of nutrients that formula simply cannot replicate.
Baby Friendly Hospitals put the needs of the baby over the conveniences of everyday healthcare. For example, if not medically necessary, infants are not separated from their mothers. This promotes bonding and helps achieve the first breastfeeding.
Labor and Delivery Units – Nassau County
The statistics can be found here: https://www.health.ny.gov/statistics/facilities/hospital/maternity/nassau.htm
Labor and Delivery Units – Queens County
The statistics can be found here: https://www.health.ny.gov/statistics/facilities/hospital/maternity/queens.htm
References
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/labor-induction/about/pac-20385141
- Healthy Birth Practice #4: Avoid Interventions Unless They Are Medically Necessary – PMC (nih.gov)
- https://www.babyfriendlyusa.org/for-facilities/practice-guidelines/10-steps-and-international-code/
- https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2901/index.htm
Information on this website is not medical advice. Please contact your medical provider for medical advice. Call 911/go to an emergency room in case of emergencies.
Wisdom The Sweetness 