If you’re an expecting #NJMOM who finds herself obsessively researching the perfect place to give birth to your little one – don’t worry, you’re definitely not alone. After all, what’s possibly the most important nine months in a woman’s life means planning (like, lots of planning), during moments when all you want is to have your feet up and Netflix on. When it comes to finding the perfect hospital or center where you’ll meet your new little babe for the first time, it can be hard to know where to start. These 5+ birthing centers around New Jersey feature the most modern maternity suites, natural birthing options, waterfront views, and all sorts of comfort amenities (whirlpool tubs, anybody?) that help every new NJMOM have a birth experience that reflects her own unique personality.
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Here are some of the Best Birthing Centers in New Jersey:
1. Riverview Medical Center
Also known as “Riverview the Beautiful,” Riverview Medical Center was voted as one of the 20 most beautiful hospitals in the United States for a reason. Located on the banks of Red Bank’s picturesque Navesink River, this riverfront community hospital is known for its private suites and spectacular views. (No, that pic is not a five-star hotel – it’s the view from one of Riverview’s many floor to ceiling windows). Aside from clinical amenities including genetic counseling, 24-hour in-house pediatricians, consultations with fetal specialists, this center boasts a spa-like environment that aims to make every mom as comfortable as possible. Concierge Care is a service that makes your stay effortless; much like a hotel concierge, special staff is always available to help assist with any aspect of your stay, from handing reservations for out of town family members and bedside spa services to running personal errands and arranging special meals. Call-ahead hair and makeup appointments can even be scheduled for your delivery, so you can look your best in professional labor photographs by Bella Baby Photographers, “capturing baby’s first moments.”
What we’re most excited about at Riverview:
- Concierge Care during your stay
- Riverfront views from private suites
- Bella Baby Photographers, in-house newborn photography
- Spa-like environment
2. CarePoint Health Hoboken University Medical Center
With locations in Hoboken, Jersey City, and nine other convenient neighborhoods, CarePoint Health {Hoboken University Medical Center} is a must-see for Hudson County families. This center’s staff, who are actually known for their warmth and compassion, work personally with every mom-to-be to ensure that she has a Pampered Pregnancy. What does this mean, exactly? This free program matches you with a Pampered Pregnancy Coach whose job is simply this: to get you through your pregnancy and birth! From the moment you see that little + on your pregnancy test, you’ll have your coach’s cell number and email for the next nine months, so all of those questions you might feel funny about asking your physician are literally just a text or call away. Anything from creating a packing list for the hospital and scheduling free lamaze classes to breastfeeding guidance and providing information on different support groups – your coach has got you covered. The Pampered Pregnancy program is a personal concierge for busy expecting moms, but there’s more to it than that, which is the free time it opens up for women to actually enjoy their pregnancy.
What we’re most excited about at CarePoint Health Hoboken University Medical Center:
- All rooms are brand new and private {and free for patients}
- Midwives on staff and doulas are welcome
- Water laboring and birthing
- Free classes and private tours for women who deliver there
3. University Medical Center of Princeton
University Medical Center of Princeton takes pride in their brand new facility with the most advance technology, sleek and modern designs, and accommodating comfort features in private suites, including reclining chairs, desk stations for computer work, private baths, mobile bassinets, Internet access, and smart TV’s in patient suites. The sheer newness of the building, paired with world class medical care, make University Medical Center of Princeton one of New Jersey’s best birthing locations. In the early stages of pregnancy, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with ideas, thoughts, concerns, and questions, which is why the physicians, nurses, and staff at UMCP use the ideas you share to customize your prenatal, labor, and delivery experiences. The staff also knows that your journey is only just beginning at delivery, which is why an exciting menu of postpartum education services are offered to mommy and daddy alike, including breastfeeding classes, support groups, outpatient consultants, courses for siblings and babysitters, and our favorite – Daddy Boot Camp!
What we’re most excited about at University Medical Center of Princeton:
- Whirlpool tubs to ease back pain
- Overnight visitor accommodations
- Modern design/ brand new facility
- Daddy Boot Camp
4. Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Meridian Health is one of the most widely recognized medical names in New Jersey, but the Neptune City facility of Jersey Shore University Medical Center is second to none. What seems at first glance to be a traditional university hospital also offers alternative birth experiences. The hospital’s partnership with The Center for Women’s Health facilitates Certified Nurse Midwifery Services, and moreover, Jersey Shore is the only hospital in the region that offers water birth. Support doesn’t stop once your brand new baby is born; the Center for Breastfeeding fosters outpatient lactation services by International Board Certified Lactation Consultants to assist new mommies during this exciting (and let’s be honest, sometimes daunting) time of learning. What’s so impressive about this big hospital is its ability to operate like a smaller clinic, with means considering alternative approaches to birth, and creating the ability for women to explore various options within the maternity center.
What we’re most excited about at Jersey Shore:
- Midwifery services
- Water birth
- Outpatient lactation services
- New Mom’s Support Group
5. Donna A. Sanzari Women’s Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center
The new Donna A. Sanzari Women’s Hospital was designed and built with you in mind! After collecting suggestions, running focus groups, and hearing what the people would want in this new wing of the Sarkis Gabrellian Women’s and Children’s Pavilion, the building was erected to reflect the needs of its patients. Located next to Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital, these facilities are together known for their clean resources and green materials. This facility is fully equipped for every birthing situation, including 14 private labor/delivery/recovery/ rooms and a collection of traditional delivery rooms for babies born prematurely or via cesarean-section. Childbirth Education is also plays a vital role for expecting mothers that choose Donna A. Sanzari Women’s Hospital. Families can choose from a wide curriculum of Childbirth and Parenting classes, including Prepared Childbirth, Marvelous Multiples, Infant Care and Safety, Breastfeeding, The Happiest Baby on the Block, Sibling Preparation, Family and Friends CPR, and even a Childbirth Pavilion Tour.
What we’re most excited about at Donna A. Sanzari Women’s Hospital:
- Building created with green materials
- 14 private rooms
- Family & Friends CPR class
- Designed using patient suggestions
Don’t forget these New Jersey Birthing Centers:
Palisades Medical Center
- Accommodations for rooming fathers
- Nutritionists in-house
- Riverfront views
Hunterdon Healthcare
- Private bathrooms & personal refrigerators
- Labor doulas
- After-baby support
Cape Maternal & Child Health Center
- Genetic counseling
- Breastfeeding guidance
- In-room labor/ delivery/ postpartum
Family Birth Center at Salem Health
- Classes for expectant dads
- Jetted tubs
- Breastmilk donation program
Morristown Medical Center
- Aromatherapy
- Midwives on staff
- Complimentary massage and meditation room
