[Lunarfish]

...hospital, Need advice!? Im 3 months pregnant, and there is a very strong chance that before the baby is born, I will be moving from California to Birmingham, AL. Its not in stone yet so I cant start making plans but Im trying to think of everything I will need to do. Obviously find a new OB, find a hospital, etc. Im very interested in finding a birth center that would allow a midwife or a doula to work with a doctor. I can be in Jefferson County or Shelby county and I know the rules are different with medical laws there. I just need advice cos this is my first child, I dont know what to expect, and I dont know what I need to figure out or prepare before birth especially then having to transfer all my care to another state!

I need advice! Anyone moved during pregnancy? Anyone had to go through this before? Even giving birth in Alabama?
Does UAB honor birth plans, and allow Doula's in with the mother? And do they have any certified nurse midwives? What about St. Vincents?

[prE4chEr]

You should go to the UAB hospital. They are pretty good. Sorry I can't help with the preperation aspect. I haven't been in your situation. I would suggest getting that info from your current doctor. She/He could also help you get in contact with one where you are going.

[? Miss Sunshine]

I have never lived in Alabama, but I recently moved during pregnancy. My advice is to tour the local hospitals first. Make sure you pick a hospital that offers the things that you are looking for (room wise, care wise for you and baby, birth option wise, and pain relief) and then see what doctors have priviledges there. I moved when I was 24 weeks pregnant, and I went with an ob without looking into the hospital she delivered at. I ended up haveing my baby in a hospital with no nicu and no epidurals. I didn't find that out until I did the hospital tour, when it was way too late to switch docs again. Everything turned out ok (he was born last Monday) but my nerves were absolutely shot prior to delivery. Good luck to you- and as far as transferring your info- they will fax your entire record, no worries.

[Corso Lover!]

The earlier you move the better. I dont know about other women, But I built a very strong relationship and trust with my doctor. You really have to because you are intrusting your life and the life of your baby to him. So the earlier you can move and begin building that doctor patient relationship the more comfortable you will be.