Having a Baby during the Coronavirus Outbreak
Richmond FAQs
Many pregnant women may have questions about planning the birth of their baby during the pandemic. We’re here to support you and help address some of your concerns.
First, please read these FAQs to provide general answers to some commonly asked questions. As situations may change, it is always best to confirm details with the hospital at which you plan to deliver.
Here is some additional info for women planning to deliver in Richmond.
Are there online prenatal classes I can attend?
Bon Secours is pleased to offer live, interactive Zoom classes taught by our Prenatal Education team. Please visit our Events/Classes to sign up!
Can I still have my baby at a Bon Secours hospital? Is it safe?
Yes and yes. A hospital is still the safest place to deliver your baby. We’re providing all the usual support, plus numerous safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Our team of doctors, nurses, midwives, and lactation consultants are all focused on keeping you and your baby safe. A hospital delivery means our entire team stands ready should you or your baby need more intensive care.
Talk with your care team about any specific concerns you have. You can also check out advice from the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists.
What is the current visiting policy when a mother gives birth?
One visitor:
- All admitted patients (excluding COVID-19 patients)
- Emergency Department patients (excluding COVID-19 patients)
- End-of-life situations or when essential for well-being and care
- Community clergy/spiritual support
Two visitors:
- Children under 12
- Mother/baby
- NICU / Labor & Delivery (including doula if requested)
No visitors:
- For COVID-19 patients
- In Designated respiratory units
- Age 15 and under
What is the eating and food policy right now?
The cafeteria currently limits the maximum number of individuals to help prevent infection, but it is open for the support person to visit for meals. We’ll supply meals and snacks for you! Also, we encourage you to bring snacks/food from your home.
What can I expect when I arrive at the hospital?
Everyone entering the hospital will get screened for COVID-19. We also are requesting that expectant mothers are tested for COVID-19 in the last few weeks of your pregnancy. Please discuss this with your provider!
We will ask you to wear a mask when you are outside of your room (for example, in the halls) or when your provider is in your room with you.
How do I get to the labor and delivery unit?
Please watch our virtual birthing center tours below!
St. Francis Medical Center Birthing Center Virtual Tour
2nd Floor of the Main Hospital
St. Mary’s Hospital Birthing Center Virtual Tour
3rd Floor of the Main Hospital
Memorial Regional Medical Center Virtual Tour
3rd Floor of the Main Hospital
Who will come in my room? Who will take care of me and my baby?
We continue to offer complete care during your labor and delivery and in the mother and baby unit after.
To protect against exposure, for patients that have tested positive for COVID-19 (or are suspected positive), we have limited:
- The number of staff members who enter rooms
- The number of times staff come in and out of your room
Your nurse will show you how to call out to the nursing desk if you have questions or need anything.
Can I have a doula when I give birth? Does a doula count as my one visitor?
Yes! We are delighted to welcome doulas and consider them an integral part of a birthing support team.
What if I think I have coronavirus? What will happen?
If you have symptoms, call your provider. Follow the general guidelines for taking of yourself it you’re sick.