Pregnancy and newborn care

Obstetric care is only one part of our women’s health services. We’re ready to provide expert support for your healthcare needs at every stage of life.

We excel at providing positive birth experiences customized to each patient needs and preferences. That’s why our OB/GYNs are consistently rated 4.9/5 stars by our patients for both compassion and professionalism.

We adhere to best practices and national guidelines that ensure the safest maternal care possible — offered in welcoming, state-of-the-art labor & delivery suites. You’ll have access to hospitalists, specialists and dedicated OB Emergency Departments 24/7. After birth, we provide postpartum support with lactation, baby bonding, rooming-in and parent education.

If you are thinking about becoming pregnant, the experts at Roper St. Francis Healthcare are here to help you take that exciting next step. Our OB team offers preconception consultations to discuss any issues like:

• Endometriosis
• Fertility concerns
• Fibroids
• Medication safety during pregnancy
• Painful or irregular periods
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Prior cancer treatment
• Repeated miscarriages

Our network of physicians can also refer you to the hospital for diagnostic testing, genetic counseling or nutritional education with a certified dietitian. Preconception consultations can connect you with the right resource and give you confidence in family planning.

Breastfeeding can take time, patience and the right guidance. Our certified lactation consultants provide hands-on bedside support during your hospital stay, including assistance with latching, positioning and pumping. If your baby requires NICU care, we continue that support to help you establish and maintain your milk supply. We’re here to answer questions, troubleshoot challenges and build your confidence before you leave the hospital. 
 
We’re also here to help even after you get home. Your OB/GYN will provide postpartum care, ensuring you’re healing well, adjusting to life as a new mom and have the support you need with any feeding challenges.

We deliver nearly 3,000 babies every year at Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital and Berkeley Hospital. Our experienced team of board-certified OB/GYNs, certified nurse-midwives, maternal-fetal medicine specialists and specially trained nurses provide comprehensive care for both mother and baby, with a special focus on supporting you throughout pregnancy and into the weeks and months after birth. For mothers with higher-risk pregnancies, our maternal-fetal medicine specialists provide advanced monitoring and coordinated care throughout pregnancy.

After delivery, our care continues with attentive postpartum support. We offer lactation and breastfeeding guidance, newborn health screenings and resources to help you adjust to life with your growing family. We also offer in-person and virtual classes designed to prepare you for what’s ahead — before and after your baby arrives. 

* Our services are available before during, and after pregnancy, regardless of ability to pay.

If you or your baby needs closer monitoring, we have perinatal specialists available to consult with your obstetrician and co-manage high-risk pregnancies. Our Perinatal Centers provides care to pregnant women with medical problems such as heart or kidney disease, hypertension or diabetes. We also treat women at risk for pregnancy-related complications such as preterm labor, twin or triplet pregnancies, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure and other medical concerns. Visits may include ultrasonography, assessment, medical management, genetic and nutritional counseling.

Our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) provides specialized care for babies born early or with medical needs that require additional support. Our experienced neonatal team monitors breathing, feeding, temperature regulation and other vital functions while keeping you closely involved in your baby’s care.

We provide fast, expert care for in emergencies through our specially designated Obstetrical Emergency Departments at  Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital and Berkeley Hospital. At both locations, you’ll be evaluated by a physician within 15 minutes. Any needed testing or labs are fast-tracked — so you can get answers and treatment without delay. In the Obstetrical Emergency Department (OB ED), it takes half the time to admit and discharge emergency patients (roughly 90 minutes) compared to hospitals without a labor and delivery emergency department. 
 
*If you think you're in labor, call your physician first. They may direct you to our OB ED.

Preparing for life with a newborn can feel overwhelming. Our virtual and in-person classes cover essential topics such as safe sleep, feeding basics, soothing techniques and newborn health. Led by experienced educators, these sessions give you practical tools and the confidence to care for your baby once you’re home.