George Washington University Hospital (GW Hospital) is located at. The labor and delivery unit is on the 4th floor of the hospital, and you can take the elevators directly up after checking in at the front desk.
What providers support deliveries at GW Hospital?
You have access to both OBGYNs and midwives at GW. The GW Medical Faculty Associates work closely with the Midwifery Services and vice versa.
Can I take a tour of labor and delivery at GW Hospital?
Maternity tours are available, for you to learn more about labor and delivery at GW. You can register here. You can also register for a “Meet the Midwives” event to learn more about the practice.
Please note that due to COVID-19, tours and in-person events are currently suspended, and there are no in-person childbirth classes being offered at GW. You can take one of DC Metro Maternity’s online classes, and we will tell you more about giving birth at GW.
If you are planning to give birth at GW, we recommend pre-registering here, to make admission go more smoothly.
What are my options during labor at GW Hospital?
During labor, you have several options. The hospital is familiar with supporting unmedicated (natural) labor, and you may move freely, use a rocking chair, birth ball, peanut ball, squat bar or the shower. Some rooms have birth tubs available as well for use during your labor.
If you would like to use medical pain relief, there are epidurals and IV pain medication available for you.
Can I eat during labor?
We always recommend eating a good meal prior to going to the hospital in labor and discussing this with your provider ahead of time. In some circumstances, you will be able to eat freely (when you have an appetite) at GW. In others, you may be offered a clear liquid diet, which includes things like broth, jello, popsicles, and ginger ale.
How many people can be with me in labor?
You are typically able to have up to four support people in the labor room with you. *However, restrictions have been put in place due to coronavirus precautions, and currently only one visitor is able to support a patient in labor.
What are my options for a cesarean birth at GW Hospital?
During a cesarean birth, you may have a support person with you in the operating room. You may also ask for a clear drape to see the procedure and to have skin to skin time with your baby and breastfeed as soon as possible.
Is there a lactation consultant at GW Hospital?
The support for breastfeeding includes access to a lactation consultant and breastfeeding support classes.
How has COVID-19 affected the hospital policies at GW Hospital?
As of writing on October 30, 2020, you can expect the following precautions due to the COVID-19 pandemic:
- During check-in, there will be screening questions. You can expect a visitor with symptoms of coronavirus not to be permitted to enter.
- Patients and visitors are asked to wear a mask for the entire duration of their stay in the hospital.
Can I have a doula at George Washington University Hospital?
- Two visitors are permitted to join patients in labor at GW. Expect your visitor to be required to stay for the duration of your stay- visitors who leave will not be able to return.
If you have further questions about having a baby at GW hospital, you can call Labor and Delivery at (202) 741-2500 or ask your doula. We’ll be happy to help you find the answers.
