Rooming-In Options with Newborns
In Israel, there are three rooming-in options for the mother and the newborn: zero separation, full-time rooming-in, and partial or flexible rooming-in. Before we elaborate on each method, it is important to note that medical recommendations, including those from the World Health Organization, emphasize the importance of keeping mothers and newborns together as much as possible. This practice, often referred to as the 'skin-to-skin' method, offers numerous benefits for the baby's health and overall well-being. Of course, this recommendation is contingent on the mother feeling well and being able to take care of the newborn herself or with the assistance of her partner, parents, or another trusted individual. Additionally, rooming-in is conditioned on the newborn being born on time and in good health.
Please be aware that each medical center may have slightly different definitions of the rooming-in method. Selecting a medical center for your delivery is a significant decision, and it is essential to inquire about the specific rooming-in options during your delivery room tour.
Note
Note
As the location of maternity wards may vary during the war in some medical centers, not all options may be available.
Changing the rooming-in method
You can choose from any of the following methods, but it is essential to understand that you have the option to change your mind at any time. However, please note that immediate changes may not be possible and that some time may be needed to transfer you to another ward.
It is crucial to stay attentive to yourself, as the process of labor and recovery can change your initial plans. Keep in mind that even if you thought that you preferred a certain method, changing your mind is natural and legitimate. What matters most at this stage is that you act according to your abilities and the needs of both you and your baby.
Zero separation
In this rooming-in method, the newborn is not separated from their mother from the moment of birth until hospital discharge. All the procedures and examinations are performed at the mother’s bedside. However, if it is not possible, they perform the examinations in their presence. Please note that according to the Patient's Rights Act, every patient is entitled to have at least one companion present, so your baby can have a companion during any type of rooming-in.
It is important to point out that in certain medical centers, a nurse administers all treatments and examinations inside the mother's hospital room. However, there may be instances where the mother is requested to visit a specific examination area.
The basic condition for zero separation: a significant companion
To choose the zero separation method, you should have a significant companion with you. It is advisable to carefully consider in advance who is the most suitable person to support you at this time. You can choose from among your mother, father, partner, friend, or any other trusted individual. Having strong support increases the likelihood of successful zero separation and full-time rooming-in.
The companion you have selected will stay with you during the initial hours until you can recover and get up from bed on your own. A companion is especially crucial in situations involving epidurals, cesarean sections, increased bleeding, and other conditions where the mother may be too weak to care for the newborn during the first hours after delivery.
Instances when choosing zero separation is not feasible
In some medical situations, zero separation will not be feasible, at least not immediately. Zero may be possible later on. This depends on the condition of the mother and newborn. For instance, after an emergency cesarean section, when the fetus needs help breathing or supervision, or, alternatively, when the condition of the mother requires supervision or treatment.
Even mothers who do not breastfeed can choose the zero separation method and feed the baby with a bottle.
Full-time rooming-in
In this method, the mother and newborn stay together after labor for a two-hour period of supervision before being transferred to the ward. The mother goes to the maternity ward, and the newborn is taken to the neonatal department for initial treatment and examinations.
Following the initial treatment and examinations, the newborn reunites with their mother and remains within the mother’s room until it is time for discharge home.
Typically, the nurses conduct the newborn assessment examination in the mother’s room. However, in some cases, it is essential to note that every hospital has different rules. Occasionally, the mother may be asked to visit the neonatal department for certain examinations.
The difference between full-time rooming-in and zero separation
The difference is usually related to post-labor medical procedures: the mother and newborn are separated for examinations and treatment. The newborn is taken to the neonatal department and then reunites with their mother and stays with her until it is time for discharge home.
Partial or flexible rooming-in
In this method, following labor, the mother and newborn stay together for a two-hour period of supervision before being transferred to separate wards: the mother to the maternity ward and the newborn to the neonatal department. While the newborn receives initial treatment, the mother recovers from labor.
The difference between full-time and partial or flexible rooming-in
The newborn spends part of the time with their mother and the remainder, typically during examinations and at night, in the neonatal department. While the baby is in the neonatal department, the mother can decide whether she wants to be awakened and is capable of breastfeeding. For the rest of the day (after the initial examinations), the baby stays with the mother in her room.