Questions to ask your doctor about hospital care after delivery

Definition

You are going to give birth to a baby. You may want to know about the things to do or avoid during your hospital stay. You may also want to know about the care you receive at the hospital. Below are some questions you may ask your health care provider about your stay at the hospital.

Alternate Names

What to ask your doctor about hospital care for mom

Questions

How should I prepare for my hospital stay?

  • Should I preregister with the hospital?
  • Can the hospital reasonably accommodate my birth plan?
  • If I need to come to the hospital during off-hours, what entrance should I use?
  • Can I schedule a tour ahead of time?
  • What should I pack to bring to the hospital? Can I wear my own clothes?
  • Can a family member or friend stay with me in the hospital during labor and delivery?
  • How many people can attend my delivery?
  • What are my options for food and beverages?

Can I breastfeed my baby right after birth?

  • If I want, can I have skin-to-skin contact with my baby right after birth?
  • Will there be a lactation consultant who can help with breastfeeding?
  • How often should I breastfeed while in the hospital?
  • Can my baby stay in my room?
  • Can my baby be cared for in the nursery if I need to sleep or shower?

What should I expect in the first 24 hours post-delivery?

  • Will I stay in the same room as the delivery, or will I be moved to a postpartum room?
  • Can my family member or friend stay with me after delivery?
  • Will I have a private room?
  • How long will I stay in the hospital?
  • What types of exams or tests will I receive after delivery?
  • What exams or tests will my baby receive after delivery?
  • What will my pain management options be?
  • How often will my OB/GYN visit? How often will my baby's pediatrician visit?
  • If I require a Cesarean birth (C-section), how will that affect my care?

References

ACOG Committee Opinion No. 736: Optimizing postpartum care. Obstet Gynecol. 2018;131(5):e140-e150. PMID: 29683911 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29683911/.

Isley MM. Postpartum care and long-term health considerations. In: Landon MB, Galan HL, Jauniaux ERM, et al, eds. Gabbe's Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 24.

Review Date: 4/1/2023
Reviewed By: John D. Jacobson, MD, Professor Emeritus, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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