first pregnancy, giving birth in a hospital I cant visit?? (sheffield) a bit scared :(

[ladylegume]

HeLlo,

Im not sure if this is normal or not (or if im being a total diva?). I asked the midwife today (25 wk visit) when I can look round the maternity hospital (jessops sheffield) and she said they only have virtual tours now (from website, which ive done). Im not sure I want to go to give birth somewhere I've never physically been before? But as its my first not sure id want to be at home either?

Is this normal practice now? (I guess they are too busy with all the actual women giving birth?)if so I guess ill just deal with it? Has anyone here given birth at jessops recently? (Give it to me straight!) Id like an intervention free birth as pos (I guess most people do) but know its in the hands of fate abit what happens!

Sorry, feel abit lost and the midwife is nice but not very forthcoming with information?? I just dont know whats normal practice?

[Souper]

You could still drive to the hospital, park in the car park, find your way up to the delivery suite and maternity wards. Would that make you feel more confident? That way, the building will be familiar even if you haven't physically been on the ward itself and you will know the way to go.

[ditavonteesed]

I have sent you a pm lady

[MinesAPintOfTea]

Lady I don't think you're silly or a diva, you are trying to prepare for a momentous occasion which is utterly reasonable, especially as you hand little idea of what will happen.

But from the other side, looking around the labour ward etc doesn't matter. Second that if its important it might help to have a trial run of parking and finding the reception, that's the only bit you have to navigate yourselves.

[FourAndDone]

I was born at jessops
However I have had four babies at chesterfield royal in the last 8 years and after it was done up a couple of years ago it is great. All my experiences were great. Friendly caring staff, modern and lovely 'natural' birthing rooms if your inclined that way (which are huge!)
Lots of parking and are great allowing visitors and on the last count upto 3/4 birthing partners (if you wanted that many)
Obviously if you don't have reliable transport then this post is pretty useless!

[Sunbeam18]

It's an infection control issue. As someone who felt as concerned as you do about being denied a tour, and who had first baby this year (at different hospital) I hope I can reassure you by saying that you honestly won't notice or care what the room you are in looks like. The process begins and you go through it. All that matters is that you have your birth partner with you, and competent and kind health professionals. Don't worry - it's not so bad!