Looking for a CT Hospital and a birthing center

KochavKatan

Hi,

We have come to the decision that we do not want to go with an OB-GYN.  I definitely want to be in control of this birth and not just be strapped to a bed for the entire time (which is what happened at my last birth). I am at the point where I am researching midwife/doula options as well as water birth and other such options of dealing with the pain without needing drugs (I had an epidural last time and I'm still living with the consequences to my back and dont want it to get worse). 

We just moved to Stamford and I hear the hospital here is not great, so I have been looking for other alternatives.  I like the Norwalk hospital from what I've been reading - I like that they have a birthing center at the hospital just in case I will need a doc.  I plan on doing a tour here in the next two weeks, but was wondering if there is other hospitals or a birthing center I should check out.  Can you send me your recommendations?

Thanks!

lsquared87

Hi!  I am in a similar situation, trying to find a place to naturally deliver my baby.  I am meeting with Sarah Najamy today who is a CNM.  She runs the St. Vincent's birthing center in bridgeport.  I don't know much about Norwalk, but I like St. Vincent's because you get all the perks of a birthing center but you are at a hospital, just in case you need it (sounds similar to what you said about Norwalk). My good friend is giving birth there sometime in the next few weeks (most likely) so I have gotten a lot of input from her and she really likes Sarah and their practice (which btw is located in Shelton). 

There is also the birth center in danbury, which is the only free standing birth center in CT (it is associated with and across the street from Danbury hospital).  I have heard wonderful things about Danbury. 

One thing that I've realized is that at some hospitals if you have a natural birth they will let you get into a tub for relaxation but they will not let you deliver in water.  I know that at St. V's you CAN deliver in water in the birthing center, so I would make sure that's something you ask if its something you're interested in. 

I can get back to you after I meet Sarah today, but for now, that is my advice!

 

Amazing817

Our Goddaughter was delivered last summer at the birth center in Danbury and our friends rave about how wonderful it was. They can't stop talking about how great of a process it was and how super supportive everyone way. They felt very comfortable being a cross the street from Danbury Hospital in case of anything. Good luck!

mommyton&e

I also used the midwives in Danbury for my son. They were wonderful. They did everything they could to help me have a natural birth but my son remained breech and I needed a csection. The midwives are across the street from the hospital and affiliated with OB GYNs just in case.

PaoPao820

I'm currently pregnant with our first and I decided to change from my OB to the Birthing Center in Danbury.  I've had a positive experience so far and am going in for my second appt at 28 weeks this coming week.  I've heard wonderful things and I'm happy I did the switch.  It's really comforting to know that the hospital is literally across the street so if anything were to go wrong, you're already there!  They also have a TON of resources for doula's and pediatricians, lactation consultants, etc.  They have prenatal yoga classes that happen at the birthing center (I'm taking a few now).  I've heard horror stories regarding birth stories and I know I can't control everything but I've heard from a number of people that the more you're prepared beforehand, the more you're active during your pregnancy and the more you're relaxed about the entire process of labor, the easier it could be and progress.  I'm looking forward to it and mentally preparing for any situation except one where I have to have hospital interventions lol.  GOOD LUCK!  And send a private message if you want more info on the birthing center!  Their welcome packet was wonderfully extensive!

JessLB1014

I delivered DD at Danbury hospital in November. I had an excellent first time experience! We had a doula and that was hands down the best choice we made! Her name was Sherrie Ruschmeyer and I highly recommend her and the program. Danbury charges $100, totally worth it! In addition to the doula, the delivery rooms at Danbury hospital have large bathtubs for you to soak in while you're in labor. I didn't have a chance to utilize the tub but I probably would have if I didn't have pitocin and an epidural right away. The recovery rooms were also amazing. We were fortunate enough to have our own room and aside from the hospital bed and medical equipment it felt like a hotel room. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask me!