What to Expect at Family Birthplace FAQs
Can the baby 'room in' with me?
Yes. We encourage you to keep the baby in the room with you. This allows you to care for your baby while in the hospital with the assistance of the nurses. If questions arise, this is the ideal opportunity to address them. Remember, the safety of your baby is most important. If you are too tired to care for your baby and there is no one else staying with you, a nurse might suggest that your baby be taken to the nursery while you rest.
What personal items should I bring to the hospital?
Bring items to help you through your labor. Many moms find comfort with massage oils and tools, digital media players and lip balm. We provide pillows, but you may prefer your own from home. We also recommend keeping jewelry and money at home.
- A case for your glasses
- Contacts
- Nightgown
- Nursing bra
- Robe
- Slippers
- Toiletries
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
Visit our What to Pack page for more information.
What should I bring to the hospital for my baby?
The hospital provides paper T-shirts, blankets and diapers while the baby is in the hospital. We encourage you to bring several long sleepers and a blanket for the baby's stay, and make sure you have your own supply of diapers at home.
- Florida state law requires that babies be secured in a car seat when riding in an automobile.
- Before coming to the hospital to deliver your baby, you should have your baby's car seat correctly installed and checked by a child passenger safety technician.
- We encourage you to watch one of our car seat installation videos to learn how to properly install your baby's car seat.
Visit our What to Pack page for more information.
Who is responsible for overseeing my baby's medical care in the hospital?
By the time you are 35 weeks pregnant, you should have chosen a pediatrician for your baby who will coordinate care with the nurses. Please bring the name and phone number of your baby's pediatrician to the hospital when you are ready to deliver.
- If your pediatrician doesn't round at Memorial Healthcare System, our staff neonatologist will act as the pediatrician during your hospital stay.
- If you do not have a pediatrician, call Memorial Physician Referral Service at 800-944-DOCS (3627) to help you find a physician that's right for your baby.
Is there lactation support with the maternity care services?
We are very supportive of breastfeeding for babies. Memorial Family Birthplace has board-certified lactation consultants on staff to help support you and your family as you learn how to breastfeed your baby. We offer consultation and support after you leave the hospital with classes, educational materials, support groups and many other services for the mother who chooses to breastfeed. See our breastfeeding classes and support groups.
Is there someone at the hospital to take my baby's picture?
Our365 is not affiliated with Memorial Healthcare System, but is a service that is available for you for prenatal and infant photography. They offer package purchases and secure online posting on their Web Nursery website in a password-protected environment. You can contact Our365 customer service at 800-325-3550.
Does the Family Birthplace have a doula service?
Doula services are available through the company Mother's Care Doula Services. They can be reached directly at 954-433-CARE (2273). They are available for both labor and postpartum support.
Does my healthcare provider give me anything to bring to the hospital?
Yes, your doctor or midwife should give you either a yellow card or a copy of your medical records to bring to the hospital. This will contain the results of your lab work. It is very important that you bring this with you so that we can care for you and your baby in the best way possible.
