For moms-to-be who are looking for a natural childbirth experience, a family birth center is a perfect option. These centers provide expectant mothers and their partners with a quiet, personalized childbirth experience led by an experienced and compassionate medical team. Serving the Mid-Willamette Valley area, the Santiam Family Birth Center at Aumsville Medical Clinic, Part of Santiam Hospital, encourages the whole family to participate in the joy of their new baby. Their birthing team of experts offers tips on what to expect during your stay at a family birth center.

2).3 Things to Know Before Your Stay at a Family Birth Center

1. Comfort is key

A birthing center room looks much different than a traditional hospital labor room. Birthing centers focus on providing ultimate comfort, with soft lighting and larger beds that allow for partners to be close. Your room will also likely be outfitted with other homey touches like a TV, couches for guests and visitors, a rocking chair, a Jacuzzi tub and even a kitchen. Most birthing centers will also encourage families to personalize their room with pictures and other items that make it feel more like home.

2. Greater freedom and privacy

A birthing center also provides families with more privacy and freedom. Expectant mothers will always have their own private room, unlike at a hospital where privacy after birth is dependant upon insurance coverage. Moms-to-be have the freedom to walk around as they see fit, wear whatever clothing they like, and can choose to give birth in whatever position they find most comfortable. They can even choose to enjoy beverages and light snacks leading up to and after labor, which is generally restricted in a traditional hospital setting.

3. Go home sooner

Since family birthing centers rely on less medication and medical treatments than a hospital, new moms will recover more quickly and get to head home sooner. Families often check out of a birthing center less than 10 hours after birth, whereas hospital discharge can take up to two full days. Besides being able to get your new baby settled in at home sooner, a shorter birthing stay also costs families less money, which is an important factor as you consider the added costs of your newly-expanded family.

For moms-to-be and their partners, family, and friends, a family birth center is the best way to welcome your new beginning in a nurturing environment. The Santiam Family Birth Center at Aumsville Medical Clinic, Part of Santiam Hospital has experienced and friendly staff who will provide quality and compassionate care during this exciting time. Give them a call today at 503-769-2175 to discuss whether their birthing center is right for you. You can also visit their website to learn more about the health services they provide, including preventative care, diagnostic imaging, specialized care and more.