Hospital tours - what should I ask/look out for?

[Popsandpip]

Hi all

I'm just under 8 weeks' pregnant with my first baby and I could benefit from your experience.

I've booked tours to view the maternity facilities at both St Mary's and Chelsea and Westminster hospitals in London. I haven't even had my first scan yet, let alone know what type of delivery I'd like but my GP said it would be good to choose where I'd like my care to be based ASAP.

Do you have any tips on what questions I should ask when I'm there? What should I be looking for (both positive and negative)? Have you had any good or bad experiences you think it would be useful for me to know about?

Thanks so much for your help!

Ask to see post natal! Ask about caesarian rates, intervention rates (ie induction, ARM etc. Visitor rules and whether ante natal happens there as well.

Ask about pain relief available (some hospitals cannot offer epidurals at night)

I would also ask about other birthing options: water pools, aromatherapy, TENS etc. As you haven't decided you could benefit from their views.

Also, ask how long women stay in post natal (on average). Some hospitals are production lines, Others will have you in until feeding is established (whether it be breast or bottle) and some will want you in for 48 hospital minimum.

Thanks ladies.

This is really useful stuff. I appreciate your help.

I'll start pulling a list together as my first tour at St Mary's is on Monday. I'm looking forward to it but have no idea what to expect. I would suppose that as both hospitals are in central London - and we all hear about how 'production line-y' they can be, that they'll want me in and out ASAP. Having heard some ante-natal ward horror stories, this might be the best option! I'll be sure to check out this aspect.