Follow the links below to learn what to bring to the hospital, what to expect during and after delivery.
What to Bring
You should prepare an overnight bag three weeks prior to your due date. That way, you'll be sure to have everything you and your baby needs while in the hospital.
The following list is designed to help with your packing:
- Bathrobe
- Flat slippers
- Two or three nightgowns, perhaps with a front opening for breastfeeding
- Five or six pair of underwear
- Personal toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, showercap, deodorant, hair care supplies, a compact and cosmetics
- One of two bras: a supportive, tight bra if bottle feeding; or two nursing bras and nursing pads if breastfeeding
- Pillows from home
- Important phone numbers
- Birth announcements or stationary, if desired, plus pen, stamps and addresses
- A watch with a second hand
- Camera with fresh batteries
- Insurance card or information
- Loose fitting going home clothes for you
- Going home clothes for baby (including blanket, bunting, diaper and a cap)
- Reading material
- Infant car seat - installed
What to Expect
- Pre-register by completing and returning a pre-registration form. After you return your pre-registration form, you will receive an information packet within two to three weeks.
- To register for any of our Expectant Family Programs call our HealthLine, (843) 402-CARE or (800) 863-2273. Whether you plan to take several classes or would just like to tour the Maternity Suites, it is a good idea to call early (three months prior to your due date) for reservations as the classes fill quickly.
- Plan ahead to have a Pediatrician available to care for your baby both while in the hospital as well as after you go home. If you need assistance in choosing a Pediatrician, contact our HealthLine for a free physician referral, (843) 402-CARE or (800) 863-CARE.
- Included in your information packet is a sample Birth Certificate worksheet that you will be asked to complete while in the hospital. You may want to review this information prior to entering the hospital.
- The purchase of an approved car safety seat should be included on your preparation list. Prior to the onset of labor, you should equip your automobile with this car seat. Practice installing the car seat properly before baby comes.
- Remember to call your health insurance company and enroll your baby for medical coverage.
Prepare an overnight bag three weeks prior to your due date.
During Delivery - It's Time!
It's the moment you've been waiting for! Remain calm and call your doctor or certified nurse midwife immediately. They will assess your progression in labor and inform you of the best time to arrive at the hospital. Your doctor will call the hospital to announce your pending arrival. We will then prepare to admit you as a patient.
Where to Go:
Roper Hospital
Maternity Suites
Located on the third floor of the Pettit wing
Parking is available in either of the garages on campus.
Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital
Maternity Suites
Located at the Women's Center on the West side of the hospital (pink building).
Parking is available adjacent to this entrance.
Upon arrival on the OB unit, you will be escorted to one of our maternity suites. We will help you unpack and make you comfortable. During your delivery, you may be joined by a loved one to coach and support you and share the miracle of birth.
Family members and friends can enjoy the comfort of our waiting room or outside courtyard while you are in labor.
Our maternity suites at Bon Secours St. Francis and Roper Hospitals combine the latest technology with a soothing, home-like atmosphere. All of our maternity patient rooms are private and furnished with special comforts such as birthing beds, private baths or showers, rocking chairs, TVs and sleeper chairs. Specially trained doctors and nurses provide the care you and your baby need. Your little one can stay with you as much as you like, or can be cared for in the nursery if you need some quiet time.
The staff of the birthing suites is specially trained in all aspects of support to laboring women. Nurses provide support for you and your partner in all types of labors from unmedicated childbirth (Bradley or Lamaze methods), to active management with epidural anesthesia. Our staff of anesthesia specialists provide on-site coverage for epidurals for labor as well as regional or general anesthesia should you require a Cesarean section. If this becomes necessary, Cesarean sections are performed within the birthing units and most times your partner can remain with you throughout the birth. Our specially trained nursery nurses attend all of our deliveries to assure your baby has a healthy start in life.
After Delivery
Rest and nutrition are important!
While you are in the hospital, a specially designed menu suited for new mothers who have special nutritional needs as a result of childbirth and nursing is available. Special food selections are also available at any time of day during your stay.
When you are breastfeeding or recovering from delivery or surgery, do not diet. Healthy eating will help your body heal and provide nutrition to your baby. If you have questions or concerns, contact your doctor or a dietitian.