Postpartum
Simply put, the Postpartum Unit (PPU) at The Woman’s Hospital of Texas cares for well mothers and well babies after the delivery. These moments are very special for families, and we feel privileged to be a part of it.
The unit has 102 private rooms over two floors in the hospital’s East Tower. You can expect a bed that’s actually comfortable, couch, TV, and any necessary monitoring equipment. Wi-Fi is available throughout the hospital, and patients can check out a laptop upon request. Most new mothers generally stay 48 hours after a vaginal delivery and 72 hours after a Cesarean section. The health of you and your baby will determine length of stay.
Different from many other hospitals, at Woman’s, mothers and babies have separate nurses. This means their attention doesn’t have to be divided between you and another patient. Even so, all postpartum nurses are educated and trained to care for both of you, which is helpful when answering your questions. Upon request, lactation consultants are available to discuss breastfeeding techniques, though all our nurses have completed at least 20 hours of breastfeeding education and can help. During shift changes, both nurses will be present to review bed-side reports and discuss patient goals.
Another unique aspect of postpartum care at Woman’s is our commitment to provide support that is congruous with your ideal birthing experience. Well babies must undergo a “transition” period in the general nursery, and afterward, you decide how much time they spend in your room. Want your little with you 24/7? No problem. Want a four hour break to catch some sleep? That’s fine, too. You have a choice, and we’re there to accommodate while still monitoring the health of you both.
During your postpartum stay, Medical Records will record information for the birth certificate and submit it to the State electronically. We’re also contracted with Ours 365 to offer photo packages to new families. This is in addition to the security photo taken by Labor and Delivery.
Our state-of-the-art security system ensures that no baby can leave the floor with alerting staff. We also employ additional safety measures, such as color-coded uniforms that communicate the level of responsibility (e.g. the permission to transport infants).
At the time of discharge, your nurses will provide literature and other information on how to care for yourself and your baby once you get home. For new moms especially (though all moms can benefit from a refresher in infant care!), we take the time to answer any question you might have. You’ll go home confident and ready to begin the new adventure together.
