Your Unique Birthing Experience
Natural C-Section
For women who choose the route of a planned cesarean delivery (C-section), a “natural” C-section may be an option at Northwest Health - La Porte.
In a “natural” C-section, the newborn is placed on the mother’s chest immediately after the birth, instead of being whisked away to a warming table to be cleaned and checked. This promotes mother-infant bonding and can lead to successful breastfeeding.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), breastfeeding is recommended to be initiated in the first hour of life and is one of the most effective preventive health measures for infants and mothers. Breastfeeding in the first hour of life allows the infant to immediately receive the benefits of colostrum, the first breast milk, which is rich in nutrients and helps provide protection against infection and disease.
Cord Blood Donation
Northwest Health - La Porte has partnered with Life Line Stem Cell to provide expectant parents the opportunity to improve the quality of life for others through cord blood donation. Parents are given the option to donate their baby’s umbilical cord blood, umbilical cord and placenta after the infant’s birth for transplantation and research at no cost to them. The tissues are sent to a processing company for cell extraction and registered with the national donor database, Be the Match.
These non-embryonic stem cells are able to help enhance the lives of those affected by illnesses such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, sickle cell anemia, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Crohn’s disease, lupus, Parkinson’s disease, spinal cord injuries and eye injuries.
Security - For Your Peace of Mind
Immediately after your child is born, two identification bands with matching numbers will be placed on your baby. Another band carrying the same identification number will be placed around your wrist. A fourth band may be placed on a person you designate. All bands will remain on while you and your baby are patients here.
Each time your baby is brought to your room or held by the person you designate, your baby’s nurse will verbally verify your names and identification number. You, as well as the person you designate, will be asked to repeat that identification number.
The maternity care unit doors remain locked - and the unit is only accessible to family and friends of patients. Visitors may enter the facility by using the intercom system inside the main door to the unit and stating the name of the patient they wish to see. This provides the best possible protection for our patients and infants.
Each infant is secured with a security tag to track and monitor your baby’s proximity to exit doors and will alarm when a restricted area is breached.
Schedule a Tour
For more information about Northwest Health - La Porte’s maternity care services or to schedule a private tour, call (219) 344-6341.