Preparing to have a baby is an important and exciting time for a family. The maternity team at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital (KEMH) has these suggestions for making your labour and delivery experience safe, comfortable and positive.Make your admission to the hospital smooth, simple and easyAfter your first visit to a healthcare provider for prenatal care, your physician will notify the maternity ward that you are expecting. A letter will then be sent from the hospital to your doctor for you to collect at your next appointment.“We want pregnant women to know that as soon as they receive this letter, they should contact the hospitals Admission Department,” advises Christine Virgil, clinical director of Maternal/Child Services at KEMH. “The hospital needs to have a record of every pregnant woman’s due date, along with her personal contact information, previous medical history, the name of her physician and the details of her insurance. The last thing a woman wants when she goes into labour is to be worried about whether the maternity team know which doctor to call or what medical challenges she may be facing.”Pregnant women are urged to contact the Admissions Department early in their pregnancy so the hospital can admit them quickly and efficiently when they do go into labour. Some women think they can wait until they are in the late stages of pregnancy but doing this as soon as you receive the letter will avoid problems if you should need to be admitted earlier than your due date. Contact the Admissions Office at 239-1446.Learn about labour and delivery at prenatal birthing classes“Taking birthing classes is an excellent way to prepare for labour and delivery and learn what to expect during childbirth,” says Janet Wheelan, clinical manager for Maternity and Special Care Baby Unit.The maternity ward at the hospital offers classes, open to expectant mothers and fathers, designed and taught by the same midwives who will be with you when you give birth. Class discussions include body changes, breastfeeding, relaxation techniques and the process of childbirth. Most importantly, prenatal classes contribute to a more positive birth experience.Classes are offered at the hospital on Tuesday evenings over a four-week period. To register, call Francine Burrows at 239-1682 or email francine.burrows[AT]bhb.bm. Light refreshments are served at the classes.Don’t be afraid to ask for helpThe maternity team at the hospital is available around the clock to answer your questions about pregnancy, labour, delivery, baby care and breastfeeding.“Our nurses are happy to address your concerns and provide the information you need to feel safe and comfortable during your pregnancy or to feel more confident and assured as a new mother,” adds Ms Wheelan. “No questions are too foolish to ask and women don’t need to wait until business hours if they have concerns and need answers. We are always here to help and support women throughout their pregnancy, after they deliver and during the early weeks of new parenthood.”Call 239-1325 if you need assistance, guidance, advice or reassurance.Submitted by the maternity team at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital