Birthing Center Services

Are you starting or expanding your family? Whether you are a first-time or repeat mom, choosing where you want to deliver your baby is an important and personal choice.

Mayo Clinic Health System understands that no two moms or pregnancies are the same and makes every effort to customize your birth experience. You have access to comprehensive labor, delivery and newborn care close to home.

Find out more about our birthing center services:

• Conditions and consultations
• Services
• Birthing center specialists
• Referrals
• FAQ
• Birthing center locations near you
• Birthing center specialists near you

Conditions and consultations

Every expectant parent hopes for a seamless transition from pregnancy to delivery to taking baby home. At Mayo Clinic Health System, the healthcare team coordinates your care and prepares you for the steps to come.

The birthing center team offers:

• Breastfeeding consultations
• Childbirth education classes
• Labor and delivery support

You will find the obstetrics and gynecology clinic adjacent to the birth center. In the event of an emergency, you can be transported to the hospital immediately, saving valuable time.

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Services

Our experts collaborate to ensure you and your baby receive whole-body care during pregnancy, labor, delivery and recovery.

Our team offers care for low- and high-risk pregnancies, including:

• Medication-free pain management, including relaxing, walking, listening to music, breathwork, showering and use of a whirlpool tub
• Pain management medications, including epidural, intrathecal narcotic, IV narcotic and nitrous oxide — commonly known as laughing gas
• TeleOB video technology, which connects local providers with obstetrics specialists at Mayo Clinic in Rochester to consult on complicated issues related to labor and mom's health
• Virtual prenatal care, which is a program for women with low-risk pregnancies looking for a more active role in their prenatal care and the convenience of fewer clinical visits

After your baby arrives, you and your child have access to expert medical care and advanced technology, such as:

• Infant circumcisions, if parents of baby boys opt for this procedure
• Lactation and breastfeeding resources, with lactation counselors available during your stay and on an outpatient basis prior to delivery and after you go home
• Newborn screenings, including weight and bilirubin checks
• Teleneonatology, which involves real-time video technology connecting local providers with neonatologists at Mayo Clinic in Rochester for assistance with acute situations and unusual clinical cases
• Special care nursery for babies requiring a level of observation and treatments above routine nursery care but less than intensive care
• Infant monitoring system, which allows you to stay connected with your baby in the special care nursery using a camera placed in the baby's bed and a 24/7 livestream

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Birthing center specialists

Our labor and delivery team strives to provide a birth experience that aligns with your desires and medical needs.

Our birthing center team includes:

• OB-GYNs
• Nurse midwives
• Advanced practice providers
• Registered nurses
• Lactation consultants

Additional care may be provided by:

• Anesthesiologists
• Reproductive endocrinology (fertility) specialists
• Genetic counselors
• Mayo Clinic Store
• Pedicatric and adolescent medicine providers
• Physical therapy providers
• Prenatal care providers
• Radiology

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Referrals

Referrals are not required. Call your preferred birthing center location to make an appointment.

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FAQ

• How can I learn more about a specific birthing center?
• How should I prepare for my baby's arrival?
• What should I bring when I go into labor?
• What is the labor and delivery process like at a Mayo Clinic Health System birth center?
• What can I expect during my postpartum stay in the hospital?
• What breastfeeding support does the birth center offer?
• What happens if my baby requires observation or treatment beyond normal newborn nursery care?
• What is teleneonatology, and how can it benefit my baby?
• What are the guidelines for birth center visitors?
• What safety and security measures are in place at Mayo Clinic Health System birth centers?
• Does Mayo Clinic Health System offer pregnancy and infant loss support?
• Does Mayo Clinic Health System provide safe options for unwanted newborns?
• What are my payment options, and do you offer financial assistance?
• Do you have an after-hours number in case of emergency?

How can I learn more about a specific birthing center?

All Mayo Clinic Health System birth centers offer a homelike atmosphere that combines the highest level of comfort with advanced obstetrical equipment and technology. Each location's accommodations are slightly different, but in every location, you will find:

• Family waiting areas equipped with many comforts of home
• Nourishment centers with snacks, a refrigerator and a microwave
• Patient rooms that provide plenty of space to host loved ones and visitors during your stay at the birth center

About the birth center in Eau Claire

The amenities at the Eau Claire Birth Center include:

• Eight private labor and delivery rooms
• Whirlpool spa in each labor room, so you can benefit from a soothing bath during labor
• 15 large, private postpartum rooms, four of which have queen-size beds and are available on a first-come, first-served basis for moms who qualify
• Showers in all postpartum rooms
• Room service offered at mealtimes in your postpartum room
• Level 2 special care nursery for babies needing a higher level of care
• Digital footprint scans, which have replaced ink footprints and are available to parents as a keepsake

Blue Distinction Center

We are proud to be recognized by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association as a Blue Distinction Center for Maternity Care. This designation recognizes our expertise and commitment in providing safe, high-quality maternity care services to our patients.

View this video for a tour of the birth center in Eau Claire or view our schedule of in-person tours (no registration required):

About the birth center in La Crosse

In La Crosse, the amenities offered include:

• Eight private labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum rooms that allow you to stay in one room for your entire stay
• Private bathroom with whirlpool spa in each room, so you can relax after the baby is born
• Room service offered at mealtimes
• Level 1 well-baby nursery for babies who require routine postnatal monitoring and care

Blue Distinction Center

We are proud to be recognized by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association as a Blue Distinction Center for Maternity Care. This designation recognizes our expertise and commitment in providing safe, high-quality maternity care services to our patients.

View this video for a tour of the birth center in La Crosse:

About the birth center in Mankato

The birth center in Mankato offers:

• Six private labor, delivery and recovery rooms
• Nine postpartum rooms
• Room service offered at mealtimes in your postpartum room
• Level 1 well-baby nursery for babies who require routine postnatal monitoring and care

Blue Distinction Center

We are proud to be recognized by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association as a Blue Distinction Center for Maternity Care. This designation recognizes our expertise and commitment in providing safe, high-quality maternity care services to our patients.

View this video for a tour of the birth center in Mankato:

About the birth center in Austin

The birth center in Austin offers:

• 10 private labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum rooms that allow you to stay in one room for your entire stay
• Whirlpool bathtubs in nine of the rooms, so you can benefit from a soothing bath during labor or after the baby is born
• Room service offered at mealtimes
• Level 1 well-baby nursery for babies who require routine postnatal monitoring and care

Blue Distinction Center

We are proud to be recognized by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association as a Blue Distinction Center for Maternity Care. This designation recognizes our expertise and commitment in providing safe, high-quality maternity care services to our patients.

View this video for a tour of the birth center in Austin:

About the birth center in Red Wing

The birth center in Red Wing offers:

• Seven private labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum rooms that allow you to stay in one room for your entire stay
• Bathtubs in every room so you can enjoy a soothing bath during labor or after delivery
• Room service offered at mealtimes
• Level 1 well-baby nursery for babies who require routine postnatal monitoring and care

Blue Distinction Center

We are proud to be recognized by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association as a Blue Distinction Center for Maternity Care. This designation recognizes our expertise and commitment in providing safe, high-quality maternity care services to our patients.

View this video for a tour of the birth center in Red Wing:

How should I prepare for my baby's arrival?

After you have chosen the provider who will care for you during pregnancy, it's time to make some preparations before baby arrives. In select locations, some family medicine providers offer prenatal, labor and delivery, and newborn care.

Select a provider for your baby

OB-GYNs and most nurse-midwives do not provide care for children, so you will need to choose a provider for your baby. Choose from:

• Pediatric and adolescent medicine physicians, also known as pediatricians, who are specially trained to treat a broad range of childhood illnesses from common problems to challenging diseases
• Family medicine physicians who have training in family medicine, which encompasses all major medical areas for people of all ages
• Advanced practice providers, such as nurse practitioners, family nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who have advanced, detailed training in the care of infants and children. They may be available in a pediatric or family medicine setting to provide primary care for children.

Attend childbirth education and parenting classes

Experiencing childbirth and welcoming a newborn for the first time — or for the first time in many years — can make some expectant parents feel uneasy and anxious. Mayo Clinic Health System offers a variety of classes to help you and your family prepare for the labor and delivery experience, breastfeeding and caring for your new baby.

Search Mayo Clinic Health System's prenatal and parenting classes and events for classes offered at the location you plan to deliver. Registration is required for all prenatal and postpartum classes, unless noted. Class sizes are limited.

Additional virtual and in-person classes are available through Mayo Clinic’s Perinatal Education Program in Rochester, Minnesota.

Install a car seat

The best protection for your child in a vehicle crash is a properly secured child safety seat. However, buying and installing the correct seat for your child can be confusing. Car crashes are the leading cause of injury and death in children, and four out of five car seats are not properly installed.

Watch videos about proper car seat installation and safety:

• Safe Kids Worldwide: Ask the Expert: Rear-Facing Car Seats (Video, 17:02)
• SaferCarTV: Rear-Facing Child Safety Restraint Systems (Video, 7:28)

Resources for general car seat safety and state guidelines include:

• American Academy of Pediatrics
• Iowa Car Seat Safety (PDF)
• Minnesota Child Passenger Safety
• Safercar.gov (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
• Wisconsin Car Seat Safety

Organizations such as local health departments, family resource centers and car dealerships may offer free car seat checks by trained technicians. Call a location near you for more information.

What should I bring when I go into labor?

Being prepared for your stay at the hospital will make it a more comfortable experience for you, your support person and your newborn.

Consider bringing these items with you:

For mom:

• Birth plan
• Insurance information
• Toiletries, including lip balm, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, cosmetics, deodorant, hair dryer, hair care items, shampoo and conditioner
• Eyewear, including glasses, contact lenses, contact solution and cases
• Activities, such as a book or deck of cards, to pass the time in case labor is slow
• Relaxation tools, such as music, essential oils and visualization aids
• Massage aids, such as tennis balls, massagers and lotion
• Pillows
• Supportive bras, including nursing bras if you plan to breastfeed
• Sleepwear, robe and nonskid slipper, including tops that open in the front if you plan to breastfeed
• Comfortable clothes for traveling home, such as sweatpants or a mid-pregnancy maternity outfit
• Electronic devices, such as cellphone, laptop, tablet and chargers

For the support person:

• Toiletries, including toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash and deodorant
• Change of clothes
• Watch with a second-hand timer for timing contractions
• Swimsuit, if desired, for water-related pain management
• Snacks, hydration and gum or breath mints
• Activities, such as a book or magazine, to pass the time when mom is asleep
• Electronic devices, such as cellphone, laptop, tablet and chargers

For baby:

• Car seat (required by law)
• Outfit for traveling home, including hat and cold weather gear, if needed
• Blanket, either receiving or something warmer, if needed
• Baby book

For siblings:

• Gift for baby
• Gift for siblings from baby
• Toys, books or crayons
• Snacks

What is the labor and delivery process like at a Mayo Clinic Health System birth center?

The idea of going into labor and delivering a baby can be overwhelming for some — especially first-time moms. There is no need to be concerned, as the team of nurses and providers will help you through the process. Learn more about the labor and delivery process:

What to do if you are in labor

How do you know when it's time to come to the hospital? No one knows for sure what triggers labor, and every woman's experience is different. Sometimes it's hard to tell when labor begins, and false alarms are common. Don't hesitate to call your healthcare provider if you're unsure whether you're in labor.

Contact your healthcare provider if you have any signs of labor, including:

• Bleeding before 37 weeks
• Contractions
• Water breaking

If signs of labor occur outside of normal business hours, contact the birth center.

What to expect in active labor

Upon your arrival, a nurse will assess you and share the information with your provider. This assessment may include:

• Asking questions about your current and past health
• Drawing blood for laboratory tests
• Feeling your abdomen for strength of contractions
• Performing a vaginal exam to check for cervical dilation
• Placing you on an external fetal heart monitor to assess fetal heart rate and frequency of contractions
• Taking your vital signs, including temperature, pulse, respiration rate and blood pressure

Nurses will monitor your labor progress and communicate with your provider as needed. A fetal heart monitor may be used throughout labor or only intermittently, depending on the health and welfare of you and your baby. Your provider may order an IV access to be started. Ice chips or clear liquids will be provided during labor, depending on your provider's orders.

Active labor can take many hours, and the nursing staff will support you during this time. As you near the time of delivery, staff will call your provider.

Your support person is welcome to be present during your labor and delivery, though the number of support people in the room during delivery may be limited.

The birth center staff wants your entire experience to be positive for you and your family. Help the team by letting them know if you have special requests or concerns.

Pain management options

Preferences for comfort management during labor and delivery are different for each woman. Explore your pain management options below and select the one that best meets your needs.

Your care team wants to partner with you to provide the support and assistance you desire. You can help by informing the team of the plans you made with your provider to manage your comfort during labor.

Labor and delivery comfort measures without medication

We encourage and promote comfort measures and labor support, as they can be the most effective comfort resources you have during childbirth. Comfort measures can also enhance the positive effects of any anesthetic or medications you choose.

Options to keep you comfortable without medication include:

• Breathwork
• Changing position
• Listening to music
• Rocking in a chair or on a labor ball
• Soaking in a whirlpool tub
• Showering
• Walking

Labor and delivery comfort measures with medication

These medicated options are available for comfort:

• Continuous labor epidural, which provides a continuous infusion of medicine through a catheter inserted into the lower back
• Intrathecal narcotic, which is a one-time injection in the lower back that causes rapid loss of feeling below the waist
• IV narcotic administered through an IV into a vein throughout labor
• Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, which is an odorless, tasteless gas inhaled during labor to dull pain and reduce anxiety

Cesarean delivery

Cesarean section delivery, also known as C-section, is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the mother's abdomen and uterus. If this is your first pregnancy, the need for a C-section may not become obvious until labor is underway.

Your healthcare provider may recommend a C-section if:

• You have pregnancy complications or health concerns
• You are carrying multiples
• You've had a previous C-section and aren't considering vaginal birth
• Your labor isn't progressing
• Your baby is in an abnormal position, or the birth canal is obstructed
• Your baby isn't getting enough oxygen
• There is a problem with the umbilical cord or placenta

Before a C-section, your healthcare provider may conduct blood tests on you or test your baby's lung maturity if delivery occurs before 39 weeks.

Most C-sections are performed under regional anesthesia, which numbs only the lower part of your body and enables you to be awake during the procedure. Your doctor will make an incision in your abdomen and then in your uterine wall to deliver your baby. The incisions will be closed with sutures.

A C-section is a major surgery that requires a longer recovery than a vaginal birth. Most mothers and babies stay in the hospital for two to three days.

For your baby, a C-section increases the risk of breathing problems or surgical injury. For the birth mother, the risks of a C-section include:

• Adverse reaction to anesthesia
• Blood clots
• Blood loss
• Increased risk of complications during future pregnancies
• Inflammation and infection of the membrane lining of your uterus
• Surgical injury
• Wound infection

Watch this video to learn more about cesarean deliveries at Mayo Clinic Health System:

What to expect after delivery

Immediately following delivery, your baby will be placed on your abdomen or under a warmer, depending on your preference and whether you had a C-section. Let your team know when you are ready to hold the baby. Some mothers want to hold their baby immediately, while others prefer to wait until after the delivery of the placenta and any necessary stitching has been done.

Shortly after birth, your baby will be weighed, measured and assessed using the Apgar score. A nurse will check vital signs for you and your baby, including temperature, pulse and respiratory rate. A nurse will also assess your uterus and check your vaginal discharge.

Nurses will perform these assessments periodically for you and your baby during your time at the hospital to check that you and your baby are recovering as you should. Your baby may also be screened for certain health conditions and receive medications to help with blood clotting and prevent eye infections.

Other things to expect in the hours and days after delivery include:

• Identification bands.
  Matching bands will be placed on you, your baby and a support person if desired.
• Baby feeding.
  Mothers who choose to breastfeed are encouraged to nurse as soon as possible after birth. Mothers who choose to bottle-feed their babies will be assisted with the first feeding.
• Birth certificate.
  Official paperwork will be initiated after the baby is delivered.
• Liquids and food for mom.
  After you've had time to recover, you will receive liquids or food, depending on your delivery type.
• Recommended screenings.
  Your baby will have the recommended screenings before discharge. Your child's provider can give more details.
• Visit from baby's provider.
  Your newborn's provider will generally see your baby the morning after delivery, unless your baby has needs that require immediate attention.
• Circumcision.
  If you choose to have your baby boy circumcised, it may be performed on the first or second day.

What can I expect during my postpartum stay in the hospital?

Your recovery time in the hospital involves postpartum routines for:

• Health checks.
  Nurses will routinely perform medical checks that may include taking vital signs and assessing your uterus, perineal area, legs and breasts. If you had a C-section, they also assess your lungs, bowel sounds and incision.
• Breastfeeding support
  Your nurses can assist you with breastfeeding needs. Specialized lactation nurses are available to help with feeding problems in the hospital and for outpatient consultation.
• Pain management
  Mayo Clinic Health System believes every patient has a right to pain relief and is committed to assisting you with pain management. Your nurses will ask you to describe your pain and medication effectiveness using a "0–10" pain scale. You may request oral pain pills for discomfort as needed and according to your provider's orders.
• Vaginal delivery recovery
  You will be encouraged to empty your bladder and walk around within the first two to three hours after delivery. Your provider may order oral pain medication every four to six hours as needed. Your nurses can provide guidance to help relieve perineal area discomfort.
• C-section birth recovery
  Your provider may order a long-acting pain medication included in the spinal anesthetic or you may be able to self-administer pain medications through your IV as needed. Nurses will help you sit at the edge of your bed and start moving as soon as you are able. Your urinary catheter will be removed several hours after surgery, and then you will be encouraged to empty your bladder. Most women transition to pain pills and return to daily showering the day after delivery.

What breastfeeding support does the birth center offer?

Breastfeeding is an excellent way to nourish and nurture your baby. Breastfeeding that continues through the first year of life provides optimal benefits for mother and baby. Whatever your breastfeeding goal is, there are professionals available to help you address issues and overcome concerns.

Our breastfeeding services include:

• Support and guidance for breastfeeding mothers with full-term and premature infants
• Collaboration with breastfeeding experts, including international board-certified lactation consultants, certified lactation counselors and other healthcare professionals to address breastfeeding difficulties
• Telephone and in-person consultation and support before and after hospital discharge
• Information and resources for breast pump rental and breastfeeding accessories

What happens if my baby requires observation or treatments beyond what is available through the nursery at the location I deliver?

Mayo Clinic Health System offers well-baby and special care nurseries for infants who need extra time and support to adapt to life outside the uterus but don't need intensive care. Your provider may recommend the special care nursery if your baby has a medical condition, is not at a healthy weight or was born between 34 weeks of gestation and full term.

Infants in the special care nursery have access to additional care, including:

• Antibiotic treatment or other short-term therapy
• Breathing support
• Feeding support
• Special testing or evaluation
• Surgery or other procedure

Special care nurseries are available in several Mayo Clinic Health System locations, including Eau Claire, La Crosse and Mankato. If your baby needs a higher level of care after being born in a location without a special care nursery, they will be transferred to the closest special care nursery location for a seamless transition of care.

As a new mom, you will be supported while your baby is staying in the special care nursery. We will make accommodations for you to stay at the hospital, typically in your baby's room or a postpartum room.

To keep loved ones connected with their baby, special care nurseries offer a streaming video option. Once parents indicate to the baby's care team that they are interested, a camera is placed at the side of the baby's bed. Parents and family members can view the 24/7 livestream using a password-protected app from anywhere with internet access.

What is teleneonatology and how can it benefit my baby?

Teleneonatology is one of the many ways Mayo Clinic extends knowledge and care to more people. Using real-time video technology, neonatologists (pediatric specialists who assist with ill newborns and premature births) can partner with your local birthing center. Teleneonatology is primarily used during newborn resuscitation or for assisting with the diagnosis of unusual clinical cases.

Benefits of the program include:

• Connects your birthing center team with Mayo Clinic experts
• Creates better access to expertise
• Improves patient outcomes
• Reduces cost over time
• Reduces time to treatment

Once the telemedicine consultant provides the evaluation and the acute need has been addressed, local providers resume the lead on patient care

What are the guidelines for birth center visitors?

A new baby is cause for celebration, but managing visitors is important so that you do not feel overwhelmed. Before you deliver, consider how you want to handle visitors during your hospital stay.

After delivery, you will want to get to know and care for your newborn baby. You will also need time for your recovery and planned education sessions with nurses to cover what you need to know about caring for yourself and your baby at home. Nurses typically plan around your visitors, but at times, visitors may be asked to wait or step outside the room.

General guidelines for birth center visitors include:

• Visitors must be in good health with no signs of illness or infection and no known exposure to mumps, measles or chickenpox
• Visitation may be restricted during high rates of seasonal illness
• Washing hands is expected before handling the baby
• Children of any age may visit and must be supervised
• A TV lounge and lobby area are available for visitors who are waiting to see you and your baby

What safety and security measures are in place at Mayo Clinic Health System birthing centers?

You can feel confident that Mayo Clinic Health System will provide a safe and secure environment for you and your baby during your stay. The following safety and security measures are in place for you and your family:

• Patient identification.
  Staff will ask you to identify yourself by stating your name and birthdate prior to taking blood samples, administering medications or performing any other procedures. If you will undergo a surgical procedure, extra steps will be taken to ensure proper patient identification prior to the procedure.
• Staff.
  Dedicated scrub uniforms and photo name tags identify obstetrics and gynecology staff. Students may wear different scrubs but also have a name tag. These are the only people authorized to have direct contact with your baby. Mayo Clinic Health System employees wear picture ID badges. If you have any questions or concerns, please call for your nurse.
• Secure unit.
  The birthing center and special care nursery doors are always locked. Only birthing center and approved hospital staff have access to the unit. For your baby's safety, never leave your baby unattended. Always transport your baby in the crib. ID bands will be matched against that of your baby. We encourage newborns to stay in the room with you, so there are rarely babies in the nursery.
• Safe sleep.
  You will learn about safe sleep techniques for baby, such as placing your baby on their back on a firm surface and always having the baby sleep in a bassinet and not in a bed with you.
• Infant security.
  In addition to the numbered identification band, your newborn will also be wearing a security sensor that sends an alert in certain conditions. This identification system helps ensure that the correct babies are given to the correct moms. Be sure your baby is always wearing an identification band and security sensor. Tell your nurse if one falls off.

Does Mayo Clinic Health System offer pregnancy and infant loss support?

Experiencing the loss of a baby is heartbreaking, and the grief is real. It is difficult for all family members.

As you heal physically and emotionally, Mayo Clinic Health System wants you to know that you are not alone. Staff is available to support families who are grieving the loss of their baby through miscarriage, stillbirth or newborn death.

Resources that may be available at your birthing center location include:

• Perinatal and infant loss bereavement support
• Burial services
• Annual remembrance events

Does Mayo Clinic Health System provide safe options for unwanted newborns?

Some pregnant women or new moms feel that it is not the right time to start a family. There are several resources for women in that position.

The laws associated with surrendering an unwanted baby vary by state:

• In Minnesota, a parent may confidentially hand over their unharmed newborn, up to seven days old, at a hospital, urgent care facility or with an ambulance dispatched in response to a 911 call. Medical staff will give shelter, healthcare and aid to the newborn. The Safe Place for Newborns law does not apply if newborns are born in a hospital, have been harmed or are more than seven days old.
• In Wisconsin, a parent may confidentially hand over their unharmed newborn, up to three days old, to any hospital employee, EMT or police professional in the state without fear of prosecution. The law is commonly known as the Safe Haven law or Wisconsin Act 2.

If you are considering adoption, please let your nurse or provider know so they can connect you with resources.

What are my payment options, and do you offer financial assistance?

Visit the billing page of your preferred location for information on insurance, billing and payments. We serve patients in difficult financial circumstances and offer financial assistance to those who have an established need to receive medically necessary services. Learn more about financial assistance options.

Do you have an after-hours number in case of emergency?

Always call 911 in case of emergency. For non-emergent questions related to your newborn or delivery recovery, contact your primary care provider via the portal or call your local birthing center. For after-hours help with other issues, get virtual care 24/7 through the Primary Care On Demand app or review our convenient care options.

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Explore locations or providers near you for details on birthing centers:

Not all treatments, tests and services are available at all Mayo Clinic Health System locations. Check with your preferred location in advance.