Did anybody have to transfer to a hospital? Can you help a postpartum nurse out? - Page 2

[Birdie B.]

You are amazing for asking this question - your patients are lucky to have you! I don't really have much to add besides what has already been posted. I had to transfer from my homebirth, and the nurses were pretty great. The doctors on the other hand.....

[chellebee]

I was quiet...I didn't know what to say to my nurses.  I didn't know if she was on board or not.  I felt like the staff was divided, so it took me awhile to figure her out and know that she was a "safe" person.  I think what would have opened that door sooner for me is if they did just a few things. 1- acknowledge that this wasn't her first choice.  I would have loved to hear "I'm sorry. That really sucks. I'll do my best to make you comfortable here though.  Let me know what you need." 2- make it clear that she still has choices and they are HERS. 3- tell her she is doing a great job and is a good mother. 

[RoseRedHoofbeats]

I haven't had to transfer (had a hospital birth with my first, this baby will be my first homebirth) but one of my biggest fears is that my baby will be admitted and I won't be. I can't stand the thought of having to leave my baby in a nursery or isolette. Most mothers who would homebirth are very committed to breastfeeding, so anything you can do to facilitate that would be appreciated I'm sure. Also talk to whoever you can about allowing EVERY mother to do skin to skin- it is appropriate even for premies or babies who are ventilated and has been shown to vastly improve survival rates, breastfeeding initiation and duration, and helps both the mother and baby psychologically and helps them bond.

~Rose