Women's Health and Childbirth/Infant Programs

ACS “Breast Education Awareness Presentation”: Educational program about breast cancer risks, prevention and mammography, including self-breast examination instruction.

Big Brother/Big Sister Program: The joy and anticipation of a new child coming into the family is shared with other siblings in the Big Brother/Big Sister program. This 1.5 hour presentation is designed for children 3 years old and older who will be getting a new brother or sister. In addition to helping them ease their anxieties, Mercer Health provides information to them about diapering, bottle feeding, safety and other important areas to help them feel like special big brothers/big sisters.

Birthing Center Tour: Tour of the Obstetrics Department, includes the Labor, Delivery, Recovery and Postpartum (LDRP) Rooms, and nursery, which provide a home-like atmosphere for the mother, baby and family members.

Breastfeeding Preparation Program: Breastfeeding is strongly encouraged during our special 2.5 hour Breastfeeding Preparation Program that is offered free to those who are planning to use this option of feeding their new baby. Topics covered include preparation, positioning, diet, potential problems and treatments, pumping, weaning, and other helpful hints.

Breast Health: In observation of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Mercer Health has several education opportunities and screenings during October. Call 419-586-1220 for more information.

Childbirth Education Classes: Our childbirth education classes prepare expectant parents for the labor and birth process. Our instructors provide information on pregnancy; breathing, and relaxation techniques; the labor and birth process; and post-delivery and baby care. The full series includes a tour of our Birthing Center. Both weekly and weekend sessions are available throughout the year.

Home Infant Hearing Test: Home visits provided by Community Hospital Home Health.

Infant Massage Training: Proven to aid in the development of newborns. The Mercer Health Center has certified Infant Massage Instructors who can teach the mother techniques that will help soothe the child and assist in the early development of your child.

Mom/Baby Care Program: Our mom/baby care program focuses on proper care for the baby and the mom after the delivery. Topics discussed during this one time 2 hour program include breast and bottle feeding; proper bathing techniques; pain control; c-section and episiotomy care; and safety precautions for mother and baby. Parents planning to adopt a baby are also invited to attend, as well as grandparents.

Postpartum Follow up Program: Within a few days after discharge, both mom & baby are invited and encouraged to return to the Birthing Center for a complete nursing assessment. The Postpartum Follow Up Program includes a physical examination, along with a review of mom and baby care. This session also provides answers to questions mothers typically have about their new baby, including breastfeeding. Each session is held on a personal, one on one basis. No other program in this area offers a more thorough follow up.

Refresher Program: For parents who have had a baby before and desire a refresher.

Welcome Home Program: Provides a free visit by a registered nurse to the mother’s home to aid in improving the health of young children and families. They provide education, resources, and referrals if necessary.

Women’s Preventive Health Program: Women's Health Program that provides breast cancer education for women and free clinical breast examinations. Pending criteria is met, ie. income level and age, mammograms are provided at reduced costs.

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