Guidelines for Pregnancy & Birth Center

During the COVID-19 emergency, we are taking extra steps to protect moms, babies and families.

The following guidelines have been put in place to best protect our families and our staff while still ensuring a safe and positive birth experience. In rare cases, exceptions may be considered.

Current Policy 

Pregnancy & Birth Center patients will be allowed four visitors in a patient room at a time plus a support person. Siblings and children may visit and do not count in this tally. Masks are now optional for most individuals, with some exceptions. However, as a patient, you can always request that your provider wear a mask while you are being treated. Visiting hours at Middlesex Hospital are daily from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Doulas or birth attendants are also welcome. If a patient has a certified doula or birth attendant, they will be able to attend the birth and will be considered one of the patient's visitors for that time period. A doula or other birth attendants will also be screened for COVID-19 symptoms. 

What Should I Know If I am a Pregnancy & Birth Support Person? 

If you are the primary support person for a Pregnancy & Birth Center patient, you must be free of COVID-19 symptoms, 14 or older and be able to care for yourself. You can visit the hospital 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout the duration of your loved one’s stay.

If you arrive after 6:30 p.m, you should report to the Emergency Department main entrance and check in with the Protective Services officer in that area. As the primary support person, you may come and go as desired.

Additional Information & Planning Ahead

Arriving After Hours: If you are arriving at the Pregnancy & Birth Center after 6:30 p.m. and you would prefer not to use the Emergency Department entrance, you may go to the main hospital lobby entrance and use the call box to notify our Protective Services team of your arrival.

Supplies & Car Seat: Whenever possible, please bring enough supplies for yourself and your support person, as well as your car seat, on the day you are admitted to the hospital for labor and delivery.

About COVID-19: For general COVID-19 information from Middlesex Health, click here.