Admission for Birth

Each pregnant woman is first examined at the Obstetrics ER to determine if she is in active labor or not.

• If the woman is in active labor, she will be transferred to a delivery room.
• If the woman is not yet in active labor and arrived at the hospital during the latent phase (see Birth Phases), she may use the Obstetrics ER's shower, walk about, or sit on a physio ball while she waits for the birth to advance.
• If the woman came for any reason other than actual birth, she will be treated at the Obstetrics ER and discharged or admitted for observation and further treatment in the Obstetrics Department on the 7th floor.

As part of the primary evaluation, a nurse-midwife will take a urine sample, measure blood pressure and temperature, perform a vaginal examination and connect a fetal monitor. If needed, a physician will perform an ultrasound exam. Sometimes the woman will be asked to wait at the Obstetrics ER until the medical staff makes a decision about the course of treatment.

If you are transferred to the delivery room, we will complete the admission process. At this point we will also prepare a "baby file" for your newborn which will include both parents’ personal details, medical information about the pregnancy and birth and identification bracelets.

Only one person may accompany the woman in the Obstetrics ER. Once she is moved to the delivery room, this limitation is lifted. Please be patient!