Labor & Delivery
Welcome your little one into the world in the nurturing environment of St. Bernards Birthcare Center. You can trust our caring team to do everything possible to ensure a safe, healthy and happy delivery.
The Safest Delivery Hospital in The Region
When to Go to the Hospital
Go to St. Bernards Medical Center if you experience signs of labor, including:
- Your water breaks
- Your contractions come five minutes apart
- You bleed more than you do during a period
Use the entrance at the hospital’s main tower, located at 225 E. Washington Ave, and someone in admissions will direct you to the east tower. Then, take the elevator to the fifth floor, where you’ll find the obstetric emergency department. A nurse and doctor will examine you within 30 minutes and decide if you need to be admitted to our Labor and Delivery Unit or if you can return home.
Obstetricians Onsite 24/7
Rest assured; an OB-GYN is always at the medical center to take care of you. This doctor has training in advanced cardiac life support and OB emergencies. In your doctor’s absence, you can count on our obstetrician to help deliver your baby.
Amenities for Your Comfort
Reduce pain and stress during labor with options such as:
- Epidural block, a spinal injection of anesthesia that numbs your lower body
- Nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) for relaxation
- Soothing aromatherapy
- Peanut cushions and birthing balls that support different labor positions
- Warm shower in your spacious bathroom
- Wireless fetal monitor so you can move around more freely
Learn about all amenities available to patients and visitors at St. Bernards Medical Center.
Virtual Tour
Discover the family-friendly atmosphere at St. Bernards Birthcare Center.
Low Episiotomy Rate
An episiotomy is a cut a doctor makes in tissue near the vagina during labor to widen the opening for the baby. Most women don’t need one, but occasionally, it can make delivery safer. Physicians at St. Bernards Medical Center use an episiotomy only 3% of the time and only with your permission.
Labor Positioning to Reduce C-Sections
Vaginal birth has many advantages for both you and your baby. So, some nurses at St. Bernards Medical Center have received training to help you labor in positions that make vaginal birth easier. To learn about these positions, as well as exercises you can do during pregnancy, visit the website of Spinning Babies.
C-Section Care
If a Cesarean section is the safest way to deliver your baby, we’ll help make your experience feel as personal as possible. Ask us about the option of clear drapes that let you watch your baby’s birth. Invite your partner to stay by your side for support. You and your newborn will even enjoy skin-to-skin cuddling right after birth—something not all hospitals support in the operating room.
Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) Delivery
If you’ve had a C-section and would like to give birth vaginally, talk to your obstetrician about your goals. We’ll work together to determine the safest approach for you and your baby.
The Golden Hour
The first hour after birth is a special time for you and your little one. We’ll delay cord clamping, bathing and other nonurgent tasks so the two of you can bond. Hold your infant to your chest to help him or her get to know the feel of your skin, rhythm of your heartbeat and soothing sound of your voice. Babies often want their first milk during these precious moments, and we can help you start breastfeeding.
Protecting Your Baby’s Health
At birth, we’ll offer these for your newborn:
- Vitamin K injection to prevent serious bleeding problems
- Eye drops with an antibiotic that protects against unknown infections in the birth canal
- Hepatitis B vaccine to prevent a type of liver infection
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends these steps for your baby’s benefit. If you have questions or concerns, talk to your doctor or nurse.
