Labor and Delivery

Experts in Delivering Joy

Plan for a healthy pregnancy and baby even before you’re expecting. Wellstar offers world-class care for a safe and healthy journey toward motherhood. Each woman’s pregnancy is as different as she is, with distinct expectations and various medical requirements.

From your first prenatal appointment through labor and delivery, the obstetricians and healthcare providers at Wellstar ensure you have the information and care you need to prepare for the birth of your child. We take our mission of delivering technologically advanced family-centered maternity care seriously. This commitment to excellence is why Wellstar is recognized for maternity care by Phillips + Fenwick, the nation's leading think tank of family-centered care.

The amenities and experienced care by our physicians and nurses are just two of the reasons why 10,000 babies are born at Wellstar hospitals each year. Our Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) offer world-class clinical care for high-risk and premature newborns and are equipped with the latest technology and equipment to nurture the smallest and most critical babies. With experienced OB/GYN practices throughout Northwest Georgia, and nationally ranked birthing centers, Wellstar provides you and your growing family world-class care close to home.

The day you’ve been preparing for and anticipating for the last nine months has finally arrived. While every woman’s experience with labor and delivery is different, and even each birth experience for the same woman is different, there are many things that you can expect to happen during your labor and delivery.

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Are overnight guests allowed?

One adult support person is encouraged to stay with you overnight, especially if you are recovering from a c-section. Each room is equipped with a sleep chair for the support person. For safety reasons, no co-sleeping is allowed in the patient’s bed.

Will my guests and I have internet access?

Wellstar provides complimentary WiFi. Our guests can utilize our wireless internet without charge.

Are cameras allowed in the delivery room?

Cameras are welcome in the delivery room, with prior consent from your healthcare provider, after mother and baby are stable. Please note this can change based on the birth situation. Videotaping or live streaming during admission, delivery or any procedures is strictly prohibited.

How will my pain be managed?

We strive to keep pain to a minimum. Your nurse will check on you frequently and continuously assess and help you manage any pain.

What is the cord-clamping policy?

For an improved healthy outcome of your baby, your healthcare provider will delay cord clamping until pulsating resolves. Your baby will get the necessary supply of red blood cells for optimal growth and development.

Do you have information on cord blood banking and placenta donation?

Currently, families are welcome to purchase their own cord blood kit and ask their healthcare provider to facilitate collection. Patients must coordinate transfer with the donation company. Please discuss this procedure and your plan with your healthcare provider in advance of your hospital admission.

Can I walk around after childbirth?

After birth, we encourage walking to promote optimal healing. You are also allowed to push your baby in the crib in the hallway.

Can the baby sleep in mom's bed?

To reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), please do not sleep with your baby in the bed with you. Place the infant on their back in the crib while sleeping, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Do you have a newborn nursery?

We promote rooming-in, allowing your baby to remain with you throughout your hospital stay, to encourage family bonding and to assist you in learning to care for your newborn.

How long will I stay in the hospital?

If your baby is born vaginally, the average stay is one to two days. If your baby is born by c-section, the average stay is two to three days or more, as your healthcare provider requires.

What time is discharge?

Our goal is to have you and your new family on your way by 11:00 AM on the day of discharge. Your nurse can answer any questions you may have about your departure.

Do I need to choose a pediatrician before coming to the hospital?

We recommend you choose a pediatrician before you come to the hospital to have your baby. At the hospital, your baby will be examined by a pediatric provider throughout your stay. Before discharge, you will need to make an appointment with your chosen pediatrician for the well-baby visits within 48 hours of discharge. If you need help choosing a pediatrician, physician referrals can be provided by calling (470) 956-STAR.

What security measures are taken for my newborn?

Wellstar has a state-of-the-art, multi-layer infant security system. Having your baby with you in the recovery room and afterward in your Mother/Baby room provides one of the most effective first-level security measures. Your baby will be fitted with an electronic sensor and mom and her support person will have an ID wristband matching that of the baby. To avoid activating the alarm, it is important for moms to remain within the unit with the baby. There are some additional measures your nurse will go over with you upon your arrival. You will also see all staff caring for you wearing Wellstar identification badges telling you who they are, along with a pink stripe on their badge that identifies them as being allowed to handle infants.

What about baby pictures?

In-hospital photography services are available. You will receive information on how to purchase these during your stay, if you choose to do so. There are a variety of photo packages and birth announcement designs available for purchase. Families are also welcome to take their own personal photographs.

Are siblings allowed in the room with the mother and new baby?

Yes. However, an adult, in addition to the new mom, will be required to be in attendance with small children. This way the new mom can focus her attention on caring for herself and her new baby. All sibling visits are subject to CDC-guideline restrictions during flu season. Therefore, children under 12 will not be permitted to visit during flu season. Children are not allowed to spend the night.

How do I obtain my baby's birth certificate?

A medical records representative will visit your room during your stay to assist you in completing the birth certificate. Fathers will need to present a photo ID if not married to the mother. The baby’s last name will match that of the mother’s while in the hospital.

What is the smoking policy?

Wellstar Health System facilities are all designated as non-smoking. Smoking is not permitted anywhere on any of our campuses. If you are a smoker, please speak with your healthcare provider regarding your options.

How can I show my appreciation to the staff?

If a particular staff member has exceeded your expectations, please fill out a Daisy Award card at the nurses’ station so that they may be recognized for their excellent care.

Will I receive a survey about my hospital experience?

After your hospital stay, you will likely receive a survey. We encourage you to give us your feedback so that we may strive to exceed patient expectations.

Wellstar Labor & Delivery

Experts in Delivering Joy

Postpartum & Newborn Care Videos

Car Seat Installation & Safety Videos

Resources in English

Resources in Spanish