Labor and delivery center in Myrtle Beach
The birth of your baby is an exciting moment. At Grand Strand Health's Maternity Center, we will do everything possible to make your miracle all it should be. Our compassionate team is here for you, from childbirth preparation to your discharge home. We also offer a Level II special care nursery if your baby needs a higher level of care.
If you have questions about our labor and delivery services, please call the nursery at (843) 692-1188 or the nurse's station at the Maternity Center at (843) 692-1840.
Important Information
COVID-19 and Pregnancy - An Update for our Patients
We would like to take this opportunity to update you about your maternity care during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and assure you that our dedicated team of expert nurses, physicians and midwives are committed to providing safe and effective care to every patient who walks through our doors.
About your labor and delivery
No matter what your needs are during labor and delivery, we are here for you. We've put together common questions moms-to-be often have before they come to the Maternity Center.
Where will I give birth?
The six birthing rooms in the Maternity Center are designed to make your labor and delivery as safe and comfortable as possible. Each room has a birthing bed, fetal monitor and all the equipment necessary to accommodate you and the baby during delivery. The rooms also have a television, phone and sleeper chair for a guest.
What are my options for managing pain?
Our anesthesia and nursing teams are committed to making you as comfortable as possible during your birthing experience. A variety of pain management options are available, including epidural and intrathecal anesthesia.
What is my postpartum room like?
The private postpartum room is just down the hall from the birthing room and is decorated with soft, tranquil colors. Every room has a private bathroom with a shower, hardwood floors, a television, a phone and a closet. Each room also has a glider rocker and a sleeper sofa chair to help family members and guests make themselves at home.
What if I need a cesarean delivery (C-section)?
A C-section suite is located within the Maternity Center, or the mother may be moved to a surgical suite on the first floor. Partners may be present during a C-section if the mother has an epidural or spinal anesthesia. Family members are not permitted if general anesthesia is given to the mother.
What about visitors?
You want to share this happy occasion with loved ones, but remember that this is an important time for you and your baby to bond and rest. At this time, our policy is to allow two named visitors to be present for your birth, provided that they meet the hospital’s health screening requirements. Please see our COVID and Pregnancy page for more information on visitors during your time at the hospital.
What technology is used during labor and delivery?
During your labor and birth experience, a wireless patch system will monitor your and your baby's heart rate. The patches are waterproof, which allows the mother to shower during labor.
If you need a higher level of care, our Maternal Fetal Medicine department provides comprehensive high-risk pregnancy services.
What should I bring to the Maternity Center?
Most women find it convenient to pack two separate bags: a "labor" bag and a "going home" suitcase. Items to pack may include:
- Cosmetics
- Eyeglasses or contacts
- "Going home" outfit for mom and baby
- Hairbrush and barrettes
- Important phone numbers
- Infant car seat (South Carolina law requires that you have an approved infant car seat to take your baby home)
- Loose-fitting nightgown
- Lotion
- Personal electronic devices
- Reading materials
- Shampoo and hair dryer
- Slippers
- Socks
- Support or nursing bra
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
About your baby's stay
Immediately after the birth of your child, the baby is weighed, foot printed, given ID bracelets and promptly returned to the mother. The mother may breastfeed and bond for an hour before she is moved to her postpartum room to rest and the baby is moved to the nursery for admission assessment. This includes a head-to-toe comprehensive assessment. Once the baby's temperature is stabilized, the baby is bathed. Partners may participate in bath time if they desire.
Our nursery
You may keep your newborn with you as long as you wish. Whenever you need to rest or enjoy some quiet time, your baby can be cared for in the nursery. Always check for identification before handing your baby to a healthcare worker. Our maternity team members have a pink border on their name badges and wear turquoise and gray-colored scrubs. 24/7 rooming-in is available and encouraged. When transported to and from the nursery, your baby must be in the bassinet.
Our neonatologist
Our neonatologist will visit your baby for a complete assessment and discuss your newborn's care with you. We encourage you to select and meet with a pediatrician well before your due date.
Birth certificates
During your stay, a representative from medical records will visit or call you to record information for your baby's birth certificate and social security number. The hospital will forward this information to Columbia, South Carolina. The birth certificate will be available at the Horry County courthouse approximately six to eight weeks following the birth.
Your baby's screenings
Before your baby goes home, we will perform the following screening tests:
- Hearing screening: This painless screening is conducted while the baby is sleeping. A baby will be screened twice before a referral is made for additional screening and follow-up.
- Bilirubin screening: Bilirubin screening tests for jaundice by identifying the levels of bilirubin in the blood.
- Blood screening: This test can detect several different congenital diseases that could cause serious harm if untreated. We will send blood samples to the state lab, and results will be available for your pediatrician within four weeks.
- Pulse oximetry: This painless test is used to check for any critical congenital heart defects. It can detect certain heart defects before any signs or symptoms are present.
Level II neonatal special care beds
We have a two-bed Level II neonatal special care nursery that is fully equipped to handle our smallest patients. These special care beds are staffed by a neonatologist. This means babies with special needs can get the high level of medical attention they require. It also allows moms and families to remain close to their newborn, which is one of the most important elements in bringing a life into the world.
Childbirth classes
We offer a series of childbirth education classes to help parents, siblings and caretakers prepare for a new baby. Classes are taught by registered nurses at Grand Strand Medical Center or at HealthFinders. We suggest parents take these classes eight weeks before their baby’s due date.
Please note:
- Breastfeeding, Infant Care and Infant/Child CPR classes are taught at HealthFinders, the hospital’s community resource center located in Coastal Grand Mall beside Dillard’s.
- Prepared Childbirth Classes meet in the hospital classroom on the first floor. Sessions are taught monthly.
- Sibling Preparation classes meet the instructor in Grand Strand Medical Center’s Main Lobby five minutes before the class or tour start time.
Prepared Childbirth Class
This is a six-hour class held on Saturday. Parents learn about the birthing process, breathing and relaxation techniques, physical conditioning and coaching skills. The fee is $50 per couple. This includes lunch and a tour of the OB unit, birthing rooms and nursery.
Register for Prepared Childbirth
Breastfeeding Class
This two-hour class provides breastfeeding instruction and guidance, including proper techniques and the role of the support person. Class is offered one Saturday each month. Partners are welcome to attend. There is no charge to take this class.
Infant Care Class
This free, two-hour class covers the basic guidelines of newborn care. The focus is on gaining confidence as the newborn’s primary caretaker. Class is offered one Saturday each month.
Infant Child CPR
This is a three-hour class designed to prepare parents and other caretakers to respond appropriately in an emergency. Instruction in proper administration of CPR, first aid and choking relief for infants and children is taught. Participants must be at least 12 years old. The class is offered one Saturday afternoon each month and costs $15 to attend.
Sibling Preparation
This one-hour class is designed to help children who are 3 to 10 years old prepare for the baby’s arrival. The class teaches brothers and sisters about their involvement in the birthing experience and how to prepare for the baby’s homecoming. A tour of the OB unit is included. One parent must accompany the child. This free class is offered one Sunday afternoon each month.
