Medstar Washington Hospital Center is located at 110 Irving St NW, Washington, DC 20010. We find that it’s easiest to take the “N” elevators to get to Labor and Delivery from the parking lot.
What providers support deliveries at Washington Hospital Center?
Many physicians practice at Washington Hospital Center, as well as midwives. The Midwives of Medstar offer a monthly meet and greet webinar to learn about their practice.
Can I take a tour of labor and delivery at Washington Hospital Center?
Historically, Washington Hospital Center has offered maternity tours, and you can register here. However, due to COVID-19 precautions, all maternity tours and classes are currently suspended. At this time, a virtual tour is not available either.
Take a childbirth class online with us, and we’ll share more details about the hospital!
What options are available during birth at Washington Hospital Center?
During labor, you have the option of moving freely to manage your pain, as well as birth balls, peanut balls, a squat bar and the shower. There are no birth tubs available, but you can talk to your provider about renting a tub and bringing it to the hospital for your birth.
For medical pain relief, Washington Hospital Center has epidural anesthesia, as well as IV pain medication. They also have nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for pain relief, an option that is unusual in the DC metro area, and appealing to some families. *At this time, nitrous oxide is not being offered as a precaution related to COVID. The equipment used to inhale the gas would be difficult to sanitize.
Can I eat during labor?
We tell all of our clients to eat well if they have an appetite, before going to the hospital. We encourage you to talk to your OBGYN or midwife about what you can eat during labor. You may have the option of eating as normal under some circumstances. Or you may be offered a clear liquid diet of things like broth, ginger ale, apple juice, and popsicles.
How many people can be with me in labor?
You are welcome to have up to four visitors in labor and delivery rooms with you. *See below for changes due to the coronavirus pandemic.
What are my options for cesarean birth?
If your baby is born via c-section, you may have a support person accompany you to the operating room. Expect your baby to remain in the room with you or your partner, and to return to your labor and delivery room for initial recovery, before moving to your postpartum room. in recovery, and you will go to your postpartum room together. You can request music in the OR, skin to skin time with your baby, and to breastfeed as soon as possible during recovery.
Is there a lactation consultant at Washington Hospital Center?
There is support for breastfeeding, including access to an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) on staff and available to support you, as well as classes and support groups. Your labor doula can also provide support for your initial nursing session after birth.
How has COVID19 affected the hospital policies at Washington Hospital Center?
As of writing on October 30, 2020, you can expect the following precautions due to the COVID-19 pandemic:
- There will be screening upon entry for flu-like symptoms, and visitors will be required to check in at the front desk.
- If a pregnant patient tests positive for COVID-19, no visitors will be permitted, and the hospital is following CDC guidelines to separate parent and baby.
Can I have a doula at Medstar Washington Hospital Center?
- Labor and delivery patients are able to have two visitors. Visitors may not switch out, and should expect to stay for the duration (there is no re-entry to the hospital). Visitors will be required to wear a mask while in the hospital.
- Antepartum/postpartum patients may have one approved support person who may leave and re-enter the designated area once per day.
If you have further questions about having a baby at Washington Hospital Center, you can call Labor and Delivery at 202-877-6161, or ask your doula. We’ll be happy to help you find the answers.
