What to expect when you’re at CMH

Having your baby at CMH, the Planetree way

By Sarah Bello, Marketing & Communications Coordinator

Choosing where to have your baby is an important decision. As part of our Planetree philosophy, the CMH Women’s Center and Family Birthing Center offer numerous programs and resources to help you have the healthiest pregnancy and birth possible. Here’s a peek at what you can expect when you choose to deliver at CMH:

• 24/7 visitor policy: Unless a patient’s condition prevents it, visitors are welcomed 24 hours a day.
• Activity cart: A roaming activity cart full of music, puzzles, coloring materials, books and movies helps patients pass the time.
• Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy with essential oils is offered to help manage nausea, anxiety and pain.
• Birthing classes: Free classes for those who deliver their baby at the CMH Family Birthing Center are offered in collaboration with North Star Doula.
• Care partner: Often, one person (usually a spouse/life partner or family member) will serve as the patient’s care partner. They can act as a spokesperson and advocate, learn about discharge needs, and help provide comfort measures. Once identified, the care partner can also have meals provided to them at no cost during the patient’s stay.
• Celebration meal: After a baby is born, the Food Services team prepares a special, three-course meal for new moms and dads ordered from the Celebration Menu.
• Massage: Monday through Friday, massage therapists offer complimentary shoulder rubs and hand/foot massages, helping patients relax and decreasing pain and anxiety.
• Pet therapy/visits: To provide comfort, a patient’s own pet may visit them in the hospital, or patients may receive a visit from a certified therapy dog.

Whether you are a first-time or experienced mom, the doctors, midwives and nursing team at CMH are committed to helping you and your family have the best labor and birth experience possible.

Note: Some of these programs and resources may be temporarily unavailable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit columbiamemorial.org/covid-19-updates for the most up-to-date information.