Q. Where can I learn about childbirth education and find support groups once my child is born?

A: The Women's Health Center has all the information you need, from childbirth education classes to play groups, breast pump rentals and support groups. You can reach them at (925) 941-7900 or visit online at johnmuirhealth.com.

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Q. How do I register for my hospital stay?

A: Pre-registration is now available online. Visit johnmuirhealth.com or call the Admissions Office at (925) 947-5280 to pre-register. Please have your pediatrician selected prior to your labor admission.

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Q. What is the phone number for the Birth Center?

A: Call (925) 939-3000 and ask for Labor and Delivery, or ask for the patient's last name if you are looking for someone in postpartum.

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Q. Are there any security considerations I need to know?

A: The entire Birth Center is a locked unit, meaning that for the safety of the babies and mothers, all visitors, including support persons, will need to be buzzed in by a staff member.

All John Muir Health employees wear photo ID badges. Get to know your nurse and look at the ID cards. Don't feel embarrassed to ask for proper identification. We also use an infant banding security system.

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Q. I think I might be in labor. What do I do?

A: Call your doctor immediately if you suspect that you are in labor.

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Q. What are the Birth Center facilities like?

A: We have 10 private labor and delivery rooms, six of which have balconies. In addition, there are 12 private postpartum rooms (where you will be after the birth of your child). Our postpartum rooms also have fold-out chair beds for support partners who wish to stay with mother and child - we provide the linens and pillow.

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Q. What should I bring to the Birth Center?

A: In addition to bringing clothing, toiletries and items for your newborn, please remember to bring the following: a calling card for any long distance phone calls, a small ice chest to accommodate your personal beverages and your installed infant car seat. Our staff cannot help you install your car seat. Prior to your due date, we suggest having your car seat installed and checked at a car seat fitting station. Call our Women's Health Center at (925) 941-7900 for details.

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Q. Can we bring a camera and tripod to the birth?

A: We understand that you want to remember this amazing event and welcome cameras. However, tripods are not allowed in labor rooms or operating rooms. Also, please remember to bring extra batteries as we cannot plug in devices for you.

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Q. How many support people can I have with me during labor?

A: Besides the medical staff, four people, plus your significant other are allowed in the delivery room. Should you be transferred to an operating room, one person may be with you. One person may at your side in the recovery room as well.

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Q. Can I bring my other child(ren) to the birth?

A: If you plan on having your children attend this birth, please have an adult (other than the support person) available as children may become frightened at seeing their mother during labor. Also, children are not permitted to be left unattended in the visiting room without adult supervision.

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Q. How long will I be in the hospital?

A: Your physician will determine the length of your stay. Typically, those who deliver vaginally are admitted for 1-2 days, and 2-4 days for those who experience a Cesarean delivery. Discharge time is 11 a.m.

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Q. Will I be able to room with my child after I deliver?

A: Absolutely! Except in special circumstances, all newborns room-in with their mother. Support partners are also welcome to stay in our fold-out chair beds.

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Q. What are the visiting hours at the Birth Center?

A: Visitors are welcome between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. Please note however that we have a small family waiting room and that large groups are encouraged to visit the main lobby or cafeteria on the first floor while mom is in labor. Also, please keep any ill family members at home. This includes anyone with colds, flu, fevers or a runny nose.

Visitors should enter through the main lobby during visiting hours. After visiting hours are over, visitors must enter through the Emergency Department entrance.

No children under the age of 12 are allowed to visit unless they are your own children. Please note, that siblings are not allowed to stay the night.

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Q. Can my family call and receive information about my labor?

A: Due to privacy laws, we are unable to give out information regarding your condition.

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Q. Can visitors bring flowers and balloons?

A: We welcome flowers to the Birth Center, but due to severe allergies latex balloons are not allowed at the hospital. We suggest your visitors bring Mylar balloons instead.

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