Maternity and Childbirth Services in Staten Island, NY
Pregnancy and childbirth are special times. At Richmond University Medical Center, we aim to relieve stress so that parents can focus on what is most important: bonding with their new little one. Our maternity services in Staten Island, New York, provide comprehensive support to new parents including delivery and newborn accommodations, new parent education, lactation consultation, and even baby’s first photos. Learn why families trust us to make this time truly unforgettable.
Maternity Services at Richmond University Medical Center
When parents visit Richmond University Medical Center for maternity care, they trust that they and their newborn are in good hands. We deliver nearly 3,000 babies every year, and our skilled nursing team routinely wins awards for the quality of care provided. Experienced nurses and OB/GYN physicians are committed to the wellbeing of mother and baby alike.
Labor and Delivery
Labor and delivery require special attention. Expecting mothers go through this period under the caring supervision of our knowledgeable staff, enjoying the comfort of our modern maternity suites. These recently renovated accommodations are designed to help mothers relax, with amenities including:
- Comfortable beds
- Refrigerators
- Reclining chairs
- Private bathrooms
- Father or partner accommodations
Newborn Services
Richmond University Medical Center maintains 40 bassinets for the comfort and care of newborns, including high-risk pregnancies. Our Wayne Zenna Level III neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) carefully manages premature labor and pregnancies where diabetes, hypertension, or genetic complications are factors. Due to our expertise and high level of care, we register a survival rate of 997.2 out of every 1,000 births – one of the highest in the nation – and have saved babies weighing as little as 1.5 pounds.
Medication Education
While pregnant, mothers share antibodies, nutrients, and even medications with their fetus. Not all of these medications are safe for babies. Many widely used drugs, including antidepressants, herbal supplements, and over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, have been shown to cause birth defects.
Accurate information about medication safety during pregnancy can be difficult to find. Many women rely on Internet search results that are frequently misleading. To guide decision-making and ensure the wellbeing of mothers and babies alike, Richmond University Medical Center offers the following advice:
- Never use a medication, including OTC medications, without first discussing with a healthcare provider.
- Never stop taking a medication without first discussing with a healthcare provider. Conditions like diabetes and asthma may be dangerous to the mother and baby if left unmanaged.
- Read the label of all medications before taking them. Drugs are required to list known risks, including those to pregnant women.
- Consult a pregnancy exposure registry. These are ongoing studies that track how various medications affect pregnant women.
- Avoid herbal and dietary supplements.
Taking medications during breastfeeding is less of a concern. Most drugs can be used safely, and substitutes are often available for those that cannot. Mothers are still encouraged to speak with a physician or lactation consultant to discuss what is best for them and their babies.
Breastfeeding and Lactation Consultation
Deciding whether to breastfeed is a personal matter. While friends and family members often offer strong opinions, new parents are encouraged to make this choice for themselves. Richmond University Medical Center aims to guide new parents by providing the latest information about breast milk and its benefits, allowing for informed decision-making.
For mothers who struggle with breastfeeding, we also provide breast feeding and lactation consultation services. Classes and workshops teach techniques to help baby latch on, while support groups help parents connect and share advice for an easier journey with less stress.
Bella Baby Photography Sessions
New parents’ first moments with their baby are truly special. This bonding period is something you never want to forget. To preserve precious memories, Richmond University Medical Center is proud to partner with Bella Baby Photography. Professional photographers visit the hospital in person to capture your baby’s first moments in the comfort of the maternity suite. Photos are taken in a beautiful, artistic style that can easily be shared with family and friends.
All photos are posted to a private, password-protected slideshow shortly after the shoot. The slideshow is hosted online, allowing parents to view and order their favorites from home or from the hospital. Birth announcement packages are also available to help share the wonderful news.
Welcome New Family Members in Staten Island, NY
Bring your newest family member into the world at Richmond University Medical Center. Located in Staten Island, NY, we provide comprehensive maternity services to ensure that labor, delivery, and baby bonding are a sacred time. Contact us at 718-818-4375 to learn more about the services we have available or to request a tour of our recently renovated maternity suites.
