To give birth in the Alternative Birthing Center, you must be in low risk and cared for by an OB/GYN doctor with privileges at Ascension Providence Hospital. We also require attendance at one of our orientations and the completion of childbirth education classes that prepares you and your family for labor, birth, baby care, and what to expect at home. Your admission is at the discretion of your provider. Some conditions that may prevent you from birthing at the Alternative Birth Center include but are not limited to:
- Breech fetal position
- Estimated low or high birth weight
- High blood pressure or any other signs of a condition called preeclampsia
- Pregnancies less than 36weeks or greater than 41weeks and 6 days
- Gestational diabetes requiring medication
- Previous cesarean section
- Twins
- Infection
- Unusual bleeding
- Water breaking and no signs of labor after 18 hours
- Meconium stained amniotic fluid (baby having a bowel movement in the womb) in early labor
- Stalled labor requiring medical intervention as determined by your provider
- Prolapsed cord
Due to the unpredictable nature of childbirth, a room in the Alternative Birthing Center may not be available upon your arrival. If this occurs, similar accommodations will be offered to you in the Labor and Delivery unit.
For more information, please email alternativebirth@ascension.org
