We are dedicated to meeting the needs of women and their families before, during, and after childbirth. Whether you are already expecting or are trying to become pregnant, consider the advantages of delivering your baby at Tufts Medical Center.
Birthing Services
Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Childbirth Education Classes
Breastfeeding Support
Birthing Services
Laboring women and their families are welcomed to Tufts Medical Center's Labor and Delivery Unit. Each of the six labor-delivery-recovery rooms is furnished with a labor bed, private bathroom, reclining chair, rocking chair, and television. Each room is equipped with state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a newborn care area, to help welcome the new baby into the world. In addition, two operating suites are located in the Labor and Delivery Unit. Whether a C-Section is planned or emergent, each room is fully equipped to deliver the finest care.
Babies who are born early or with complications can receive care in the on-site Neonatal Intensive Care Unit home to one of the leading nurseries in the country. Tufts Medical Center's services for new parents also include a web nursery to allow loved ones to view new arrivals online.
Maternal-Fetal Medicine
The physicians in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine have expertise in caring for women at high risk for complications during their pregnancy or childbirth. These specialists have offices at Tufts Medical Center, South Shore Hospital, Lawrence General Hospital, Metro West Medical Center, and Lowell General Hospital.
Appointments for any of the locations can be made by calling the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine at 617-636-4549.
Childbirth Education Classes
Childbirth education is offered in a number of ways at Tufts Medical Center. To print out a registration form, click here. For more information about any of the classes mentioned below, please call 617-636-4214.
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Childbirth Preparation Classes are recommended for first time parents. Topics include pain management, labor support, vaginal & cesarean births, and techniques for relaxation & breathing. There is also a tour of the Maternity Unit.
Classes are held one evening per week for three weeks, and all day on one Saturday. Sign up recommended by 24 weeks (6-7 months) of pregnancy.
Refresher Classes are recommended for those who want to brush up on labor techniques and learn about the latest developments in birth technology. Topics include a comparison of first and subsequent pregnancies, pain management, breathing and relaxation techniques, and sibling preparation.
Classes are held on a Saturday morning or one evening. Sign up recommended by 24 weeks (6 months) of pregnancy.
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Vaginal Birth after Cesarean (VBAC) Counseling is designed for women who have had a cesarean birth and are now considering a vaginal birth. Topics include the risks and benefits of VBAC and ways to improve the chances of a vaginal birth. Sessions can be arranged by your health care provider, are one-to-two hours long, and are free. Recommended at 14 to 24 weeks of pregnancy.
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Prepared Childbirth Classes for Teens is specially designed for the needs of teen parents to learn about labor and delivery, pain management, breathing & relaxation techniques, infant care, and breastfeeding. Please call for further information regarding Teen classes. Sign up recommended by 24 weeks (6 months) of pregnancy.
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Breastfeeding Classes are offered to women who are interested in learning to successfully breastfeed their new baby. Topics include beginning to breastfeed, troubleshooting, common problems, and pumping, storing, and transporting breast milk. Classes are held one evening per month. Classes recommended during the third trimester.
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Infant Care Classes are offered to teach the basics of infant care to parents. Topics include feeding, bathing, diapering, infant behavior, signs and symptoms of illness, and safety issues. Classes are held once per month. Classes recommended 4 to 6 weeks before due date.
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CPR Classes are offered for parents, families, and friends to learn the lifesaving techniques of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, including rescue breathing and choking prevention and treatment. The class is taught by an American Heart Association Certified Instructor, and are held on a Saturday morning from 9 - 12 or weekday evening from 5:30 - 8:30.
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Siblings Classes are offered for soon-to-be brothers or sisters, ages three and up, to give them a chance to discuss their feelings and make a project for the new baby. Instructors emphasize the importance of being a big brother or sister. Classes are held on one Saturday per month, and are recommended 4 to 6 weeks before due date. Call for further information.
Breastfeeding Support
Breastfeeding is strongly supported at Tufts Medical Center. We have an excellent nursing staff as well as Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultants available for prenatal consultation, inpatient assistance, or postpartum support. For more information, please contact us at 617-636-0175.
Breast pumps are available for use while in the hospital, without additional charge. Pumps for home use may be rented or purchased at competitive rates. Please call for details 617-636-0175.