The birth of a new baby is a much anticipated and wonderful experience. Lakeland’s BirthPlace was designed to make the arrival of your little one the most comfortable and joyous experience possible. We know that you expect the highest quality medical care and support during the birth of your baby. The BirthPlace’s comfortable, family-centered birthing suites feature the latest in technology with plenty of space for your family and loved ones. Our caring and experienced labor and delivery professionals will give you the information and support you need to help you feel relaxed and confident before, during and after your delivery.

Mother and New Baby Care
After you and your loved ones have welcomed your new little one, mother and baby are transferred to our Mother/Baby Unit. Each newborn is transferred to our nursery to receive a physical assessment, hearing screen and various required tests. The rooms in our Mother/Baby Unit were designed to offer mothers and families a private place to bond with their newborns. Babies may stay with their mothers in the room or in our nursery when mom is in need of rest. We are always available to answer your questions and provide guidance during those first days.

Once you’ve returned home with your infant, an OB nurse will telephone to offer support and answer any questions you may have about the care of your baby.

Educational Services For a Bright Beginning
The Lakeland continuum of care includes a wide variety of education classes that focus on the needs of families from pre-conception through delivery and new infant care. All classes within the Lakeland Expectant Parent Program are free of charge, but pre-registration is required.

Preparing for Childbirth Series
This class was designed to teach first-time parents what to expect during the birth of their baby. A series of five classes covers relaxation and breathing techniques, the physiology of labor and deliver, Cesarean birth, care of newborns, breast and bottle feeding and postpartum care. This course includes a tour of the BirthPlace. One night of this series will focus on issues unique to fathers and mothers. Men attend Boot Camp for New Dads and women attend our Maternal Connections class. This class is recommended to be taken during the third trimester of pregnancy. Pre-registration is required.

Boot Camp for New Dads
This interactive class is taught by veteran dads, with the help of their little ones. First-time fathers get hands-on practice and learn about topics such as teamwork, balancing career and family and safety. Boot Camp for New Dads is part of the Preparing for Childbirth Series but may also be taken separately. Pre-registration is required.

Maternal Connections
This interactive class is taught by experienced mothers with the help of their babies. Topics include becoming a mother, physical considerations, emotional considerations, relationships, working outside the home and planning. Provides opportunities for hands-on practice. Maternal Connections is part of the Preparing for Childbirth Series but may also be taken separately. Pre-registration is required.

Breastfeeding Class for Moms and Dads

Breastfeeding provides the best nutrition for your baby, and is a special opportunity for moms and babies to bond. Taught by a Board Certified Lactation Consultant, this class will discuss the benefits of breastfeeding, correct latch-on, position techniques, assessing your baby’s intake/output, feeding cues, breast pumps, going back to work and weaning. Take this class before the birth of your baby. Bring a doll or teddy bear to class. Class is held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Frederick S. Upton Education Center at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph. $30 FEE for this class. Call (269) 556-2808 to register. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Check or Cash. For more information about this class, call the Lakeland Lactation Consultant at (269) 927-5355.

Welcome Baby Class
This single class, designed for siblings and their families, is held in two parts. Part one acquaints children with the BirthPlace and assists families in preparing for the new baby. Part two is for children who are planing to be present at the birth of their new sibling and helps prepare them for the sights and sounds of childbirth. Pre-registration is required.

All classes are held in both St. Joseph and Niles. For more information, call (269) 927-5355 in St. Joseph or (269) 687-1829 in Niles.

Wellness Services

Lakeland’s Health Resource Libraries
If you’re looking for current and credible information on obstetrics or child care, Lakeland’s Health Resource Libraries can provide you with a wealth of information. Our Health Resource Libraries are comfortable and home-like places where our patients, their families and community members have access to a broad range of relevant and current health information and resources. Each resource center contains specialized sections that focus on areas such as heart care, obstetrics, oncology, child care, as well as disease management, treatment and prevention topics. Patrons may check out books and other media materials for reviewing in the comfort of their own home. The libraries are located within Lakeland Community Hospital, Niles and the Lakeland Center for Outpatient Services.

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