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The BirthPlace

A New Life Begins . . .

Every pregnancy is wondrous and unique. At Frederick Memorial Healthcare System, we understand the needs of laboring mothers and we have designed the BirthPlace for your comfort, security and privacy. Our staff of skilled medical professionals knows that every birth is different and gives you the freedom to do what feels right for you. The BirthPlace is committed to making your child’s arrival a joyful experience for you and your family.

Visiting the BirthPlace

The BirthPlace sponsors scheduled tours through the FMH Wellness Center.  The Family Focus program encourages you and your birthing partner to attend - by appointment:

• childbirth classes,
• a tour of the BirthPlace,
• the Small Wonder program for the big brothers and sisters to be; and,
• parenting classes.

All of these educational opportunities are designed to help prepare you for the exciting birth of your baby.  

The BirthPlace encompasses your Birthing Suite, Family Center, the Newborn Nursery, and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.  The Birthing Suite is where you will labor, give birth and recover in the same comfortable, private room with your support people who will encourage and coach you throughout your labor and delivery.  At the BirthPlace, we respect your birth plans and encourage you to discuss these with your doctor at your prenatal visits. An experienced nursing staff devoted to giving quality care will provide explanations about medical procedures and reassurance throughout your labor. They will be an important part of your support team and will be waiting for your arrival at the BirthPlace.

A Child Is Born
No other emotion can ever match the joy, amazement and relief you experience when your child enters the world and lets out its first hearty cry. If you wish to capture this event on film, either camera or video, please refer to our "Videotaping and Photographing Patient Information and Consent Form.” You will be encouraged to hold and feed your baby immediately to begin forming the special bond that will develop throughout your lives.

Family Center                
The Family Center is where you and your baby will be moved to a comfortable private room. You will meet your family-friendly Mother-Baby nurses who will be assuming care for you both. Our Family Center provides a nurturing environment with supportive nurses who have been trained in postpartum and newborn care. Your baby may stay with you as long as you wish. Rooming-In is an opportunity offered to mothers who wish to have their babies with them all of the time, however feel comfortable knowing you have the option of returning your baby to our Nursery where skilled Nursery staff will take over the care.