Planning for Delivery
There's a lot to consider as you prepare for your baby's birth. Your physician, midwife, or nurse practitioner can help you make the decisions that are best for you and your baby. In partnership with your health care provider, Obstetrics and Gynecology at Strong Memorial Hospital will support you every step of the way.
Hospital Pre-Registration
It's a good idea to register for your hospital stay soon after you learn that you are having a baby. This way, we already have it on file when your labor begins!
Once your doctor or midwife knows you plan to deliver at Strong Memorial Hospital, their office should provide a registration packet for you to fill out and return to our Care Management Department as soon as possible. The packet is usually given when you are around 6-months gestation; however, you can request it earlier.
This is also a good time to plan for the financial aspects of your baby's birth. Since every medical insurance plan is different, please check with your insurance carrier for specific details of your maternity coverage and benefits. Some payers require that you inform them you are expecting prior to delivery. They can also clarify steps you need to take or paperwork they may need to add your new dependent to the policy.
If you have questions on your maternity pre-registration form, do not have medical insurance, or have questions about your insurance, our Maternity Financial Coordinators are glad to assist and help you make sure things are in order for your baby’s birth and beyond. For last names starting with letters A-H, call (585) 273-4375. For last names starting with letters I-P, call (585) 275-5593. For last names starting with letters Q-Z, call (585) 275-4626.
What to Bring to the Hospital
- Toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, comb, and brush
- Robe, nightgown, slippers
- Nursing or support bra
- Clothes for you and your baby to wear home
- Book or magazine
- Items you use for relaxation
- Camera and batteries/charger
- Blanket to take baby home
- Pillows (keep in bright colored pillowcase)
- Snacks for your support person
Plans You Will Need to Make
Choose a Support Person
You may choose your spouse, a partner, a friend, or a family member to be your support person while you are in the hospital. This person should be available at the time of your labor. Include your support person in your pregnancy by having him or her meet your health care provider before labor and being aware of your choices for labor and delivery.
If you do not have a support person, let your health care provider know. It is also helpful to let your health care provider know if you have any special requests or needs due to religious or cultural factors.
Plan for Transportation
A trial drive is helpful for you to know how long it will take, which hospital entrance to use, and to locate the parking lot. Make sure that your car always has enough gas during the last months of pregnancy. Practice using your baby's car seat to make sure that you know how to fasten it correctly with your car's seat belt.
Arrange for Child Care
If you have other children, it is necessary to arrange for child care. You may need to have one plan for daytime hours and one for the night. At this time, all visitors must be at least 18 years old.