Preparing for the arrival of a baby, especially for first-time mamas, opens up a whole book of questions and plans, plus a new world of physical sensations, and emotional ones: excitement, joy, even fears that never occurred to you before the plus sign appeared and changed your life forever. Planning the nursery, arranging for maternity leave, buying tiny clothing, and studying up on the process of birth and labor techniques might keep you busy, but don’t forget to focus on one of the most important aspects of bringing new life into the world: choosing where to give birth. 

For some women, this choice is a simple continuation from pre-pregnancy OB/GYN care, but when it comes to the birthing process, there are a lot of factors and needs to consider, like the availability of prenatal education, private birthing suites, lactation consultation, and other postpartum support. Whether your birth plan involves natural birth, inducement, V-BAC, or other options, during the most intense, important hours of your life, what kind of care and amenities matter to you? What should matter? 

This carefully researched chart helps you easily visualize a breakdown of care options in Philadelphia area birthing facilities, vetted by birthing women, their families, and the nurses, midwives, doulas, and doctors that helped ease their babies’ ways into the world.

Like what you see? 

Unplug with us!

Get our print magazine in your hands as a subscriber or take advantage of the perks and discounts from our Main Line Parent Business Members when you join as a Supporting Member!