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Pregnancy

Talk about every stage of pregnancy, from early symptoms to preparing for birth.

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Original poster

Maternity tour - what questions to ask

22 replies

skinnylegs33 · 03/04/2015 16:08

Hi,
Was wondering if anyone could help me put together a list of questions to ask during an upcoming maternity tour (C&W hospital)?

This is my first baby, due beginning oh August and to be honest I feel totally overwhelmed. I am not sure I have taken it all in yet and to be honest I am not in that frame of mind yet: I think at the back of my mind I refuse to consider childbirth yet, probably because I am shit scared and I can't think of any questions at all :(
I presume this visit has nothing to do with setting up a birth plan? I don't even know what my choices are in that respect.

So what should I ask?

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PotteringAlong · 03/04/2015 16:10

If you might like a water birth you need to ask about the availability of the pool etc

EssexMummy123 · 03/04/2015 16:17

If they do epidurals / mobile epidurals.

GlitzAndGigglesx · 03/04/2015 16:18

This is a good time for you to ask about all forms of pain relief and how they work, who will be present during delivery, they can even advise you on what to bring in when it's time

LipglossHoney · 03/04/2015 16:26

Maybe ask about the parking?

RainbowTortoise · 03/04/2015 16:32

Birth partner policy if you would like more than one. I changed hospitals two weeks before giving birth as I was told during a tour that the hospital had a strict one birth partner policy and I had my heart set on my partner and my mum being there.

Original poster

skinnylegs33 · 03/04/2015 16:33

Thank you all

We don't have a car so at least we don't have to worry about parking.

I believe they have a new birth centre, definitely was going to ask about pool, etc. In all honesty I was hoping I will get a cs, but it looks like it is not going to happen. So failing that, I would def prefer a water birth.

Epidurals - I had to see a consultant a few weeks again (been referred back to mw as nothing wrong with me luckily) but 1 note she made was that I should be offered early epidural. Now I have to read about it and see what it means exactly, whether it is a good idea or not.

I was also thinking to ask about a private room, if they have any, how much, etc.

Anything else?

OP posts:

Luciferbox · 03/04/2015 16:34

Is there an 'out of hrs' entrance. Mine locks the main door at 9pm.

Original poster

skinnylegs33 · 03/04/2015 16:35

Yes, thank you, that's actually a good idea. Was thinking to ask my sil as she is the type of person that keeps a cool head in tough situations. And obviously want my dh there.

OP posts:

Topsyloulou · 03/04/2015 19:29

If they have wireless monitoring. I was on constant monitoring during labour but our hospital has wireless monitors so I could still walk around. Ask what criteria they have for you to use midwife led facilities and when you need to be moved to consultant led so you have it clear at the outset.

hope123x · 04/04/2015 09:51

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

Rosieliveson · 04/04/2015 15:34

For me the important questions were when to call and where to go when the time came.
Visiting hours and restrictions are quite useful to know too.

Original poster

skinnylegs33 · 05/04/2015 13:00

Thank you all for your suggestions, all good, I've just made a serious list now
I really didn't want to go unprepared, thanks for your help

OP posts:

CheeseEMouse · 05/04/2015 13:50

I saw the new birth centre at C+W last week - it's lovely. You'll have a risk assessment for the birth centre (mine was 36 weeks) so that'll be the point you get some of the details about whether or not you'll be there or on the labour ward or what situations you'd get transferred. I know it sounds daft but I made sure my husband knew where he was going to bring me in, also when to ring up.

CheeseEMouse · 05/04/2015 13:52

Oh, and nearer the time check the football fixtures if the season has started (seriously!). Traffic can be quite bad on a match day, so if you are prepared at least you know to leave more time to get in.

Original poster

skinnylegs33 · 08/04/2015 12:59

cheeseE good point about the games. I'm due end of July/beginning of August, I think that's in between seasons, but will double check.
I'm getting excited about the birth centre, only seen a brochure but really liked the looks of it.

OP posts:

pinkie87 · 08/04/2015 16:33

This is a really useful thread. I'm due in August too, can I ask how you set up the tour? Is it through the midwife?

gcerron · 08/04/2015 17:52

Yes I would like to know the same as pinkie, how to set up the tour, I am still in the early stages 12 weeks, but it will be good to be informed in advance.

Original poster

skinnylegs33 · 08/04/2015 21:54

At the 12 weeks mw appt I saw a poster advertising maternity tours. I also had the contact details in my maternity notes

OP posts:

Original poster

skinnylegs33 · 08/04/2015 21:55

I've been told you can only book them after 20 weeks.

OP posts:

pinkie87 · 09/04/2015 08:09

Ok great thank you. :)

Heels99 · 09/04/2015 08:17

If the unit is full, where will you be sent?
Does everyone who wants an epidural get one?
How long do people usually stay in for after the birth?
Is there a nicu?
How do you get your own room for after e.g Is it done on need or can you pay

AuntieStella · 09/04/2015 08:19

Which car parks can you use, and do they have a free token system so you don't have to pay on your actual say of delivery?

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