| Taking your “first steps” as a new parent
Feeling overwhelmed about your new responsibilities as a parent? Calvert Memorial Hospital is here to help you be the best parent you can be – from childbirth education to infant CPR and baby care basics.
CMH offers a wide variety of classes, programs and services to support expecting and new parents before you deliver, while you’re in the hospital and after you go home. For a complete listing, call 410-535-8233 or visit the CMH website at www.calverthospital.com.
“It’s critical that parents-to-be have the information they need to ensure a memorable birthing experience,” said Holly Dooley, RN, director, Calvert Memorial’s Family Birth Center.
Childbirth education classes are offered weeknights and on Saturdays. Expectant parents learn about labor and delivery preparation, relaxation and breathing techniques, medication options and breastfeeding. The class is free for low-income parents through the Goldstein Wellness Fund. For information, call 410-535-8233.
Baby Care Basics helps new parents increase their confidence and feel more comfortable about handling their newborn. The introductory class covers bathing, diapering and burping. The next level looks at typical childhood illnesses and steps parents can take to care for their child.
Choosing a pediatrician
Choosing the right pediatrician is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. Studies show that you and your baby will likely visit the pediatrician’s office at least 11 times in the first year.
Consider starting the selection process about three months before you’re due so that you’re not rushed. A good place to start is to ask family and friends for a recommendation. Neighbors with children and your own obstetrician are other reliable sources.
Currently, there are nine board-certified pediatricians on staff at CMH. To learn more about their medical background, visit the CMH website or call 1-888-906-8773. It is important to find someone you are completely comfortable with.
A face-to-face meeting is suggested before you make your decision. The doctor should be warm, compassionate and open to your thoughts and feelings, and share similar views. Be sure to ask about office hours, waiting times and which insurance plans are accepted. You will also want to know who is available to answer questions and how phone calls are handled.
Parenting support
The CMH Family Birth Center is dedicated to giving new families a helping hand. The spacious rooms allow our nursing staff to provide each family with individualized attention, said Dooley.
“We encourage parents of newborns to ‘room-in’ with their babies,” she said. “This promotes greater bonding for the infants and a relaxed learning opportunity for new parents.”
Moms who choose to breastfeed get all the support they need during and after their stay. Once home, they receive a parenting newsletter each month during the first year.
Thinking of having a baby?
For families choosing to have their baby at Calvert Memorial Hospital, we’ve created a special kit to help make the process of becoming a parent a little bit easier. To request a copy, call the Women’s Health Resource Line at 410-414-4569.
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