What Hospital Closures Mean for Birthing Options in Cincinnati
Mama, when planning where you want to give birth, having options is important. You deserve a space that feels right, offers care you can count on, and supports your preferences for labor and delivery.
However, Cincinnati has seen a wave of hospital closures that’s making these decisions more complicated. Earlier this year, Mercy Fairfield closed its Labor and Delivery Department, and now Mercy West has followed. These closures don’t just limit where you can give birth; they also affect the kinds of birth options available to you.
In this article, we’ll provide you with more information about how Cincinnati hospital closures impact your labor and delivery experience and the choices still available to you.
How Cincinnati Hospital Closures Are Impacting Labor and Delivery
When hospitals close their Labor and Delivery departments, it directly impacts your birth experience.
Below, we’ve explained three ways these closures affect your options and what it means for the care you deserve during this special time.
1. Fewer Hospitals, Fewer Choices
Every time a Labor and Delivery department closes, your options shrink. It means fewer places to compare based on what’s most important to you—whether it’s being close to home, having the right amenities, or accessing specialized care. With fewer hospitals available, you may need to travel farther and deal with crowded facilities.
In addition, the remaining hospitals often get busier. Overcrowded maternity wards can stretch staff thin, lead to longer wait times, and make it harder to get the personalized care you deserve. All of this impacts the experience you’ve been planning for months.
2. Limited Natural Birth Resources
If a natural birth is part of your plan, these closures might feel especially frustrating. Not every hospital prioritizes natural birth resources like birthing tubs, midwives, or low-intervention policies. Therefore, it gets harder to find hospitals that support the birth experience you want.
This can be discouraging if you’ve envisioned a specific kind of birth. But knowing which hospitals or birthing centers still offer these resources can help you adjust your plans while staying true to your vision. Staying informed is the key to keeping your options open.
3. Unexpected Hiccups that Could Impact Your Birth Plan
These closures bring challenges that you shouldn’t have to face alone. You might need to find a new hospital, switch to a provider who works at a different location, or rethink parts of your birth plan. All of this can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already balancing the excitement and uncertainty that come with pregnancy.
On top of the practical challenges, it’s okay to acknowledge the emotional toll. Losing options, you’d counted on can leave you feeling frustrated or even disappointed. But by exploring your alternatives and leaning on trusted advice, you can create a plan that still feels right for you and your baby.
Hospital Choices After Labor and Delivery Departments Close
Navigating hospital closures can feel overwhelming, but understanding your options and advocating for your needs can help ensure a birthing experience that aligns with your preferences.
Below, we have outlined and explained three options to consider:
1. Discuss Options with Your OBGYN
Your OBGYN is one of your best allies during this time. Bring up your concerns about hospital closures and ask for recommendations. They can share insights about which hospitals still offer the services you need and help you weigh your options. If you’re not satisfied with the choices available, don’t hesitate to ask about alternatives or even switching providers.
Be open and specific about what you want for your birth. Whether you’re prioritizing a natural birth, a supportive environment, or proximity to home, sharing your preferences helps your provider guide you in the right direction. If your current provider can’t meet your needs, they may be able to connect you with someone who can.
2. Request Tours of New Hospitals
If you’ve been affected by a closure, visiting other hospitals can help you feel more confident in your decision. Ask about scheduling tours of the facilities where your provider delivers. During the visit, pay attention to the birth rooms, and the staff. Ask questions about policies that matter to you, like family involvement, comfort options, and emergency procedures.
Touring a hospital isn’t just about logistics; it’s about finding a space where you feel comfortable and supported. Feeling at ease with your surroundings can make a big difference when the big day arrives.
3. Switch Providers to Meet Your Birthing Preferences
If the hospitals your provider works with don’t align with your birth plan, switching providers might be the best choice. Many mamas make this change late in pregnancy, often up to 32 weeks. It’s never too late to find a provider who supports your vision.
Look for someone who delivers at a hospital that feels right for you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, read reviews, and schedule consultations to ensure they’re a good fit. Remember, this decision is about creating the best experience for you and your baby. It’s worth the effort to find someone who understands your needs.
Find the Support You Deserve with Stork Helpers
The recent hospital closures in Cincinnati might seem like they limit your options, but there are still choices available, and you don’t have to navigate them alone.
At Stork Helpers, we’re doulas dedicated to supporting you. Whether it’s helping you create a personalized birth plan, finding a new provider, or simply answering your questions, we’re here to ensure you feel confident and supported every step of the way.
Your birth experience should reflect your unique needs. We’re committed to guiding you through these changes and helping you adapt while focusing on what matters most: welcoming your baby into the world with care, compassion, and confidence.
We are always listening, guiding, and comforting you! Start a conversation with us today by following this link!
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