Duke Birthing Center

Had our first baby here so we haven’t experienced anything else to compare BUT, overall the staff was okay. There were some GREAT nurses who we loved but a few made us want to get out of there asap. The post part room is very small and uncomfortable for everyone (except mom). Which was okay with me as long as she was good. Other they fact that they came in every 30 minutes to check on things and didn’t let us get a rest… They did a great job with the delivery but i would assume there are nicer hospitals out there.

Duke Birthing Center is located on the 5^th floor of Duke Hospital.
My room left no reminders that I was in a hospital setting. The best part is that all the rooms here are private. I had a Whirlpool tub, shower, tv, recliner sofa for nervous daddy, a huge closet, another big couch, and nurses waiting on my hand and foot.
My plans were to go med free which the birthing center accommodated but alas, I wanted drugs. I just wish I would have done my research on meds because they don’t do walking epidurals at Duke Birthing Center. Once they stab you with a needle and shove tubes down your back — you have to stay kaput. I don’t have any medical background but I think this is why my labor didn’t progress and I stalled.
They do encourage the baby to stay in your room and even have a mini crib set up for your little one when they come out into the world. The nurses will make their rounds and wake you up when the munchkin needs a feed. Of course, you always have the option to leave the baby in the nursery.
You’re allowed to bring your own Doula and Midwife. I wont go into the details of my labor because it was pretty craptastic. I did end up passing out due to blood loss from a rare complication (lucky me). My mother and husband describe Duke Birthing Center’s reaction time as immediate and outstanding. I awoke to about 4 doctors and 6 nurses. It was a great reminder that this was not your average birthing center with limited medical staff — I was also in Duke Hospital!