Obstetrics
Fifteen years ago, St. Francis redefined the way babies were born in the Upstate.
At ST. FRANCIS eastside (formerly St. Francis Women's & Family Hospital), we combined a then-innovative LDRP concept with the highest quality nursing
and neonatal care available. In short, we know how to care for you. And for the
most important person in the world ... your new baby.
Customized LDRP Suites
Moms labor, deliver, recover and experience post-partum in the same private room (a room with enough space for dad). The St. Francis approach focuses on family:
parents, siblings and other family members and friends may participate in the
birth experience – to whatever extent the parents desire – with expert staff to
support them. Once you've delivered, your baby will remain in your room with you.
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24/7 Neonatal Care
St. Francis offers 24/7 neonatology care in our Neonatal Care Unit, giving you a 'round the clock comfort level. For babies with unexpected difficulties
and special needs, this unit provides resuscitation, oxygen therapy, short-term
breathing assistance, intravenous therapies, and respiratory monitoring/observation
as a result of premature birth.
Our board-certified neonatologist (specialized in newborn intensive care) is on call 'round the clock and directs
the Neonatal Care Unit and its skilled infant support team. The team includes
neonatal nurse practitioners with an average experience level of 17+ years. Learn more...
Medical Services
For pain management during delivery, we have an anesthesiologist on call 'round
the clock. In addition, should a Cesarean section become necessary, two dedicated
operating suites are only seconds away.
Doula Services
Our qualified Doulas, trained by the nationally-certified Doulas of North America (DONA), serve as labor assistants for mothers-to-be who request this unique
childbirth option. The Doula provides both emotional and physical support for
the mother and the husband/support person during the birthing process. (Statistics
have proven that doula-attended labors positively affect the lengths of labor,
Cesarean section rates, lengths of stay, and overall patient satisfaction). Learn more...
Lactation Center
Designed specifically to aid and support moms who breastfeed, our Lactation Center provides prenatal breast assessment, prenatal breastfeeding classes, a support
group, inpatient support, outpatient services, weight checks, and phone consultations
for lactating mothers. St. Francis also offers specialty services such as supplies
and pump rentals, bra fittings, and hard-to-find items, like nursing gowns and
Medela nursing bras and products. Learn more...
In-Home Nurse Visits
First-time mothers and mothers of multiples qualify for a one-time in-home visit
from a St. Francis nurse within a few days of discharge. The nurse is available
to answer any questions about the baby's health as well as mom's well-being. This
program is supported by the St. Francis Foundation.
Parent Education Programs
St. Francis offers the largest selection of parent education opportunities in
the Upstate, including an extensive roster of classes and St. Francis Great Expectations, an annual educational event for parents-to-be. Learn more...