Virginia Hospital Center (VHC) is located at . The labor and delivery unit is on the 2nd floor- during the day you’ll enter through the visitor’s entrance and security will direct you to the elevators.
What providers support deliveries at Virginia Hospital Center?
You can find many of the OBGYNs that attend births at VHC on this website.
Can I take a tour of labor and delivery at Virginia Hospital Center?
INOVA offers tours that can be scheduled here. Currently, due to COVID-19 precautions, there are no tours available. You can view a virtual tour with this video.
Take one of DC Metro Maternity’s online classes, and we will tell you more about giving birth at VHC.
If you are planning to give birth at VHC, we recommend pre-registering here.
What are my options during labor at Virginia Hospital Center?
During labor, you may move freely, use a birth ball or peanut ball. If you would like to use medical pain relief, you have an epidural or IV pain medication as options to discuss with your provider.
Can I eat during labor?
We always recommend eating a good meal prior to going to the hospital in labor, and discussing food with your provider before labor. Often in labor, you’re offered a clear liquid diet, including things like broth, jello, popsicles and ginger ale.
How many people can be with me in labor?
Typically, you may have several visitors with you during labor. *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 Virginia Hospital Center?
During a cesarean birth, you may have one support person with you in the operating room, and can expect your baby to be with you in the recovery room. You’re encouraged to hold your baby and breastfeed as soon as you are ready.
Is there a lactation consultant at Virginia Hospital Center?
There is 24/7 lactation support available at VHC, that can be arranged by speaking with a provider. Breast pump rentals are available here.
How has COVID-19 affected the hospital policies at Virginia Hospital Center?
As of writing on October 30, 2020, you can expect the following precautions due to the COVID-19 pandemic:
- Expect to be given a test for COVID when coming to the hospital.
- During check in, you will enter through the Women & Infant Health Lobby, where you and your support person will be screened, and you can expect a visitor with symptoms of coronavirus not to be permitted to enter.
- A partner and a doula may be with you in labor. Expect your visitor to be required to stay for the duration of your stay.
Can I have a doula at Virginia Hospital Center?
With the current COVID guidelines for labor, delivery, and postpartum, you may have one partner and one certified midwife or doula for the duration of your stay. All of DC Metro Maternity’s labor doulas are certified.
If you have further questions about having a baby at Virginia Hospital Center, call Labor & Delivery at 703.558.6114, or ask your doula. We’ll be happy to help you find the answers.
