The delivery of babies has been a happy event for the labor and delivery teams at Lutheran Hospital and Dupont Hospital over the past year. Thousands of infants born over the past year have been a welcome sight in the midst of the global pandemic.
While the virus has changed many things in the world – The Birthplace at Dupont Hospital and Lutheran Hospital are a pleasant constant, located in a separate area at each hospital to provide specialized care and services. A dedicated team of nurses, obstetricians and other caregivers work exclusively with the moms and babies through delivery and postpartum care.
“It is a privilege to care for moms as they bring new life into this world,” said Amy Thomas, MD, OB/GYN and medical director of the OB Laborist Program at Dupont Hospital. “Our Birthplaces are designed with comfort and safety in mind and our compassionate team is committed to making this an exceptional, safe experience.”
Prenatal care remains critical and women are encouraged to stay in contact with their obstetrician and keep their appointments to be sure their pregnancy is on track. And once the baby is here, regular visits to the pediatrician are important to help them thrive.
The hospitals and physician clinics keep the safety of their patients as the top priority. Many actions have been taken to enhance infection prevention and support social distancing to maintain a safe environment during the pandemic.
When an expectant mom arrives at the hospital, staff will check her temperature (as part of checking her vitals), test for COVID-19 and complete a screening questionnaire. Moms can have two designated visitors (including spouse or partner), but only one at a time. There are no visiting hour restrictions. Visitors must wear masks at all times.
“We are taking the necessary precautions for your protection,” said Ravi Raju, MD, OB/GYN and medical director of the OB Laborist Program at Lutheran Hospital. “More than 1,000 moms have their babies here each year and we give each the personalized care they need.”
Labor and delivery proceed as they always have and most adjacent procedures remain available. Tubal ligation after delivery is an option if a mother is negative for COVID-19 and circumcisions can also be performed. Breastfeeding is encouraged, even for moms who test positive for COVID-19 and can protect their infant by wearing a mask.
As for prenatal classes and postpartum support, virtual classes and online support groups have temporarily replaced onsite options. CPR classes are offered by appointment only to enable expectant parents to learn this important skill in a safe environment.
Information about The Birthplace is available online at Lutheran Hospital or Dupont Hospital. If you need help finding an obstetrician, pediatrician or another provider, visit the “Find a Doctor” link or call (833) 546-4968.
Lutheran Hospital and Dupont Hospital are certified as Perinatal Centers and as Level III Obstetric Care and Level III Neonatal Care Centers by the Indiana State Department of Health. Dupont Hospital and Lutheran Hospital have also been designated Blue Distinction® Centers+ for Maternity Care from Anthem, Inc., which recognizes quality maternity care and expertise.
