Preparing for a Baby
We Make it Easy on You
Whether it’s your first baby or your fifth, we offer a number of services that will help you and your loved ones prepare to welcome a new family member.
Physicians who Deliver Babies at ZCH
We can recommend a number of obstetricians, gynecologists, family practitioners and pediatricians (161 KB, PDF) who share our commitment to personal attention and quality care.
Working with your Doctor
We have prepared a Birthing Preferences Checklist (397 KB, PDF) to help you develop a personalized birth experience plan. You discuss your options with your doctor, complete the checklist and then we'll go over the details with you at your preadmission visit.
Touring the Family Birth Center
As you're making the important decision on the delivery of your baby, we invite you to come in for a personal tour of our beautiful facility. You'll see why the Family Birth Center is the choice for mothers who want a warm, friendly, intimate birthing experience. Please call 616.748.2882 to schedule a tour.
Learning about Childbirth
ZCH offers a variety of educational opportunities for expectant parents, including:
- A comprehensive class for first-time parents that can also be a refresher course for those who have given birth before
- Infant care and CPR instruction for all parents and caregivers
- A class that teaches older siblings about having a new baby in the family
- Breastfeeding techniques and helpful solutions
- A prenatal yoga class which strengthens muscles and alleviates many discomforts of pregnancy
Completing Pre-Admission to the Hospital
Once you have informed your doctor of your decision to deliver at the Family Birth Center, one of our pre-admission registered nurses will call you to arrange a visit. The ideal time for you to visit is between the 35th and 37th weeks of your pregnancy. Pre-admission (166 KB, PDF) enables you to complete paperwork and review your plans and expectations. It's an essential step in the birthing process because it ensures a speedy admission when the big day arrives. For additional pre-admission information please see our Birthing & Babies page.
Getting a car seat
Infants should ride in rear-facing car seats as long as possible, until they are at least 12 months old and weigh at least 20 pounds. Keep children rear-facing to 30-35 pounds if your car seat allows it.
Family Birthing Center Brochure
The Family Birthing Center Brochure (2 MB, PDF) tells you all you need to know about ZCH’s Family Birth Center – where you and you baby get the attention you deserve.
