Mount Sinai West

Reviews (192)

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? December 2022 Review: It's complicated. I found out I had COVID when they tested me at the hospital, but not until they had already started the induction. They did a bad job of communicating the implications of that, such as not being able to use the alternate pain management techniques from my birthing plan, so I waited way longer than I would have to get an epidural. The postpartum staff were good, except for the in-house lactation consultant, who was overly alarmist about his weight loss. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? Make sure you don't have COVID, and keep on them for updates about the knock on effects of anything that's happening.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? February 2023 Review: Very good overall, so many nurses were really great. One nurse in the intake place was terrible and did my pic line sooo badly I had internal bleeding and bruises for over a month after. Everyone once I was transferred to the actual birthing center was really good; attentive, caring, kind etc. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? Be picky with your pick line and if it hurts while it’s in ask them to redo it maybe by someone else. Also maybe ask for a room with a shower because it was so helpful to have that available!

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? July 2022 Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? I was glad to have asked for a private room when I got there! As with any hospital, it's a roll of the dice when it comes to nurses. I had one that was a real stickler about pain medication – if you are in pain, definitely ask your OB/midwife if they have prescribed you something stronger than what you're getting!

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? September 2022 Review: We had a great experience at Mount Sinai West. Private birthing and postpartum rooms (we also were there on a not too crazy weekend). Nurses/ staff were pleasant Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? Bring your own pillow!

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? December 2023 Review: We had a very positive experience at MSW; the birthing suites were very modern and well appointed, and the nurses were THE BEST. Each was so kind, thoughtful, and engaged. Postpartum, we were in one of the older rooms, but it still had a cot for my husband and a shower, and it was totally fine. The nurses in postpartum were also very supportive. Only nitpick is that the food was so-so—but there is a Paris Baguette on the corner, so you can send your partner or support person out for something tasty if you need! Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? If you're planning on bringing a car, make sure you look up the closest parking garages ahead of time so you know your plan. MSW has several suggestions on their website.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? March 2023 Review: Nurses were wonderful. Rooms were fine, they lacked pillows and blankets but found a peanut ball for labor. The postpartum room was pretty large and the food and snacks were pretty good!

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? March 2023 Review: I had a wonderful birthing experience at Mount Sinai West during a birth led by Oula midwives. The postpartum experience was more mixed--the lactation consultant didn't come to see us until more than 36 hours after the birth of the baby despite multiple requests. This ended up being fine for us, but I know that is just plain luck--our baby nursed well from the beginning--since early support can make such a difference for breastfeeding. It was hard to get rest with so many people coming in and out of our room, including to take meal/snack orders, but that's typical for a hospital. We had to wait a few hours to get a private room. But it was well worth it to be in the hands of the Oula team!

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  I was very worried about the hospital time, after some poor experiences at other hospitals in NYC. MSW wasn't my first choice, but I wanted an OB who worked there -- anyway, I absolutely loved it. The vast majority of rooms are private, the nursing staff, lactation consultants, and even security staff were just lovely. We felt extremely well supported and I feel really warmly when I remember that room. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? Do not leave the hospital until you are sure your pharmacy has filled your pain meds prescription! Our pharmacy was out of the medication, and narcotics cannot be transferred; I couldn't connect with the on-call and spent 24 hours without pain medication after a C-Section. I was miserable.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? March 2023 Review: The Mount Sinai West staff was extremely professional, caring, and friendly. From the labor and delivery floor to the postpartum and NICU, everyone we met was knowledgeable, caring, and eager to help. The facilities were clean and comfortable and we would definitely recommend and return to Mount Sinai West for labor, delivery, and postpartum care.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? May 2022 Review: No complaints. Since the hospital was super quiet, we got a large, private room. It was great. Hospital was clean and the food was fine. The nurses were nice and the lactation consultant was good. We stayed only 24 hours.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? Oct 2022 Review: Good. Private birth and postpartum rooms. Good smoothie. Not terrible food. Staff were kind, but midwives we’re still a good buffer. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? Find where to get food nearby.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? May 2023 Review: Exceptional care throughout - postpartum nurses in particular were a highlight. Got unlucky with a shared room first night but moved to a private as soon as one opened up.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? August Review: They were incredible. Delivered him safely two months early and the nicu nurses were actual angels on earth Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? Visiting hours end early so hard for people who work to visit

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? February 2023 Review: Great nurses, terrible food, clean rooms. With my first pregnancy I was able to access more of the hospital resources. It seemed like the relationship with my OB office has changed in the last 2 years. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? Order takeout.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  July 2023

  What month and year was your child born? March 2023 Review: Importantly, I was told by Oula that Mt.Sinai West had nitrous oxide, which was a big part of why I switched from NYP LOMA to Oula, but when we arrived at the hospital we learned there weren't enough machines to go around and the one available to me was broken. And no one could fix it (?). Beyond that, a vast majority of the staff we interacted with were professional and kind, and I felt that I was in good hands. A big issue I had was that immediately post-op my pain was poorly managed. I can't say enough wonderful things about the nursing staff. The food was pretty good (smoothie delivery!), we had a private room, the facility was everything you'd want it to be. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? Don't assume nitrous is available.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  June 2023

  What month and year was your child born? March 2023 Review: Overall, positive experience. We had a private room and it was a typical hospital experience. We had one negative interaction with a night nurse but the 30+ others we met were patience with us as new parents.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  June 2023

  What month and year was your child born? September 2022 Review: Mount Sinai West was totally fine, and we'd go there again. We found ourselves there mostly because our unbelievably amazing midwives have admitting privileges there. L+D was a significantly better experience than recovery. Our L+D nurse was a TREASURE (ask for Kristen with the glasses!) and so soothing and attentive. Not knowing if we'd get a private room was stressful, and the care on the recovery floor was okay - nurses repeatedly refused to remove my hep lock and it took MANY asks to get things like ibuprofen and colace. Billing was opaque and hard to negotiate. That said, we all came through it healthy which was the goal.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  June 2023

  What month and year was your child born? April 2023 Review: It was fine. The nursing staff on the L&D ward was great, and very supportive of my choices. The postpartum ward was hit or miss. Some of the staff was brusque or outright rude, and the first lactation consultant I saw was supremely unhelpful. I also had a shared room, which was less than ideal as the other new mom was struggling and I think could have used some privacy, so I felt very uncomfortable.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  June 2023

  What month and year was your child born? December 2022 Review: I loved the labor and delivery nurses. They were incredible. The postpartum nurses and doctors were hit or miss (a lot of guilting and shaming). The postpartum suite was amazing, as was the food. I wasn’t charged extra because they’re still trying to keep people in their own rooms, because of Covid.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  June 2023

  What month and year was your child born? July 2022 Review: Our labor room was brand new and state-of-the-art, but we admittedly did not spend my time there because I needed a c-section fairly early into labor. Most of the staff were lovely, but there were some logistical issues, one being that we spent around 7 hours in the post-op recovery room before being able to be put into an actual room in the maternity ward (it was pretty rough considering we had been up for over hours at that point, and my husband only had a plastic chair available to him). Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? Bring snacks for after you deliver! If you deliver at an odd time and have to go hours until the next scheduled meal, it's tough to find somewhere to even get a bag of chips. Have something on hand just in case.

• Review from the Spring 2023 Birthing Survey

  June 2023

  What month and year was your child born? December 2022 Review: It was fine, the facilites are quite dated if you do not get into the newly updated wing. We had requested a private room in the updated wing (it requires credit card and is self-paid) but we were told since it was cold/flu/COVID season it was being prioritized for ill patients to quarantine. We lucked out and still got a private room in the old wing (probably updated in 80s)--shower was kind of gross and the bed for partner was pretty terrible but at least there was one vs. a chair! L&D nurses were all fantastic, very supportive and kind and we liked that you were assigned one nurse per shift so you always knew who your care team was. The postpartum care was erratic at best, never felt like we knew who was our contact and got different answers from different nurses whole time. Our baby had jaundice and stayed in the nursery (not NICU) for a day & overnight without us and we found that staff to be very kind and they supported me going in to breastfeed multiple times a day and to visit baby and they allowed us to come very early in morning after night we had to leave her to feed. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? Request the updated, private room immediately if you want it/want to pay for it. They did not provide peanut balls for birth, we brought our own and very happy we did so

• Natural birth in NYC

  September 2022

  Also had an outstanding experience and unmedicated delivery (also of my 2nd child) at Mount Sinai West with Oula midwives and a fantastic doula. Would highly recommend both.

• Natural birth in NYC

  September 2022

  I had a very positive experience delivering at Mt Sinai West with the midwives at Oula (and doula support as well).

• Review from the Summer 2022 Birthing Survey

  September 2022

  What month and year was your child born? April 2022 Review: I had a not great with experience with a surprise induction for preeclampsia. The hospital staff were all lovely good, but it's hard to assess or to separate my feelings about the hospital from the not fun circumstances of my birth. Again, I recommend a birth doula for consistency of care. The 12-hour shift changes can feel jarring otherwise, especially when you're losing a nurse you LOVED. We were given a private postpartum room for no charge, but it was super barebones and not one of the fancy newly renovated ones.

• Review from the Summer 2022 Birthing Survey

  September 2022

  What month and year was your child born? July 2022 Review: Great nurses and doctors who have excellent, calm, patient-centered care. I gave birth a month before I expected to, and the team at the hospital alleviated my anxiety, answered all my questions, and did everything they could to make me and my husband comfortable and confident. Our twin girls spent about two weeks in the NICU here and their doctors and nurses were likewise excellent. The head of the NICU, Dr. Krishna, met with us before I delivered, which I really appreciated. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? Ask for lactation consultants early! If you want to rent the hospital-grade pump to help establish your supply, you can rent through the hospital for just $9/day — and ask your OB for a prescription to help cover the cost through insurance. They will test you for COVID when you’re admitted via PCR. If you have had COVID in the past three months (ie it will show up on a PCR test but not a rapid test), bring proof that you had it already so they don’t think you’re currently infected. This is especially important if your child has to be admitted to the NICU - they (rightfully) won’t let you in if they think you’re infected. If your child is in the NICU for an extended time, and you’re driving to the hospital, ask for a parking pass - NICU parents can park in a nearby garage for just $5/day.

• Review from the Summer 2022 Birthing Survey

  September 2022

  What month and year was your child born? February 2022 Review: I wouldn't recommend Mt. Sinai West. During ultrasounds they kept pressing me that I had gestational diabetes even though I passed the sugar test and kept asserting my baby was going to be huge (she was not). It was stressful and my midwife (who was not at the ultrasounds) had to continually talk me off the ledge after each one.

• Review from the Summer 2022 Birthing Survey

  September 2022

  What month and year was your child born? June 2022 Review: Wonderful- they were helpful, making sure to give me options, made sure all questions were answered and all requests were granted (if doable) Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? They told me that because of Covid, everyone gets their own recovery room and isn’t charged more for it

• Review from the Summer 2022 Birthing Survey

  September 2022

  What month and year was your child born? July, 2022 Review: I was quite impressed by Mt Sinai West. Everyone from the nurses to all of the support staff were very supportive. The lactation consultant spent a good 30 minutes with me, which I appreciated. And most of their rooms are private and recently renovated and they no longer charge for them. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? It’s helpful to arrive with a negative PCR test from within the past 5 days

• Review from the Summer 2022 Birthing Survey

  September 2022

  What month and year was your child born? 04/2022 Review: I came into Mount Sinai West in active labor at 35 weeks with a breech baby that was going to require a c-section. Getting in the front door, the guys at the front desk were great and not about to let me have a baby in the lobby. The L&D team knew I was coming and had an OR prepped. For being a bunch of people I didn’t know, I felt a lot of trust watching what felt like all of them in their hyper focused state while maintaining calm and clear interactions with me. My daughter was born by c-section less than 30 minutes after walking in the front door, which I think speaks to the ability of doctors and all staff to be efficient under pressure. For recovery, there are apparently two wings. I was not in the newer one (which I heard was nice). The old wing isn’t great, and peeking into a few other rooms, mine was also one of the smallest. I didn’t care at all in the beginning, but by the end of my 4-day recovery it would’ve been nice to have a little more wiggle room and a shower that I wasn’t concerned about getting a fungus from. The nurses seemed understaffed and I had to ask for my pain medication frequently to stay on schedule and completely missed a few doses when I wasn’t proactive. The NICU is AMAZING though. The nurses there are lovely, kind, and patient. They explained everything that was going on, taught us how to hold and feed our daughter, change her, and what progress she’d made each day. The whole space is new and has a warm, non-hospital feel to it. Each family can pull a curtain around their baby’s area to have personal time, and the nurses will let you stay as long as you want (besides shift change) with minimal interruption. Our daughter was only there for 1.5 weeks, but we still talk about some of the nurses there. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? As of April 2022, I was allowed 1 guest that could stay overnight with me, and 1 guest who could visit during limited daytime hours during recovery.

• Review from the Summer 2022 Birthing Survey

  September 2022

  What month and year was your child born? May 2022 Review: It was fine. I’ll be fine with going here for the next baby too. The night nurse we had was WONDERFUL, but the day nurses were the worst. They seemed like they had no idea what they were doing. One of them dropped my completely numb leg off the bed while I was trying to push. The doctor was furious. The food was very good though which I didn’t expect. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? There were no private rooms available because of covid. I didn’t have to share, but it was a double room which meant there was no where for my husband to sleep so he built a bed on the floor out of our bags and my pregnancy pillow.

• Review from the Spring 2022 Birthing Survey

  March 2022

  Overall I had a very positive experience at Mount Sinai West. We were some of the first patients to use their new birth recovering wing, and it's about as nice as one of those corporate hotels (i.e. VERY nice for a hospital!). The majority of the L&D nurses were incredible, loving, and good at their job. I had gestational diabetes so they had to check in on me whenever my monitors shifted (which was a lot) so I had a ton of interaction with the nurses. They were kind and patient with me. While the majority of the hospital staff were helpful, I did have a bad interaction with one nurse who was inattentive and less than careful. At one point my midwife was getting nervous about baby's heart rate. She was ready to advise that we use some method of assistance such as the vacuum. The doctor on shift came in timely and calmly assessed the situation but was not concerned. I liked that he wasn't quick to revert to interventions when I wanted to keep pushing. Turns out her umbilical cord was wrapped around her ankle so it made it a little harder but all was fine! Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Anything pandemic related that could be helpful to them? One thing that I didn't anticipate during recovery is that due to the COVID surge at the time, we were not allowed to get our own water. We had to call in a nurse fairly often to refill our water bucket. A piece of advice: bring speakers or headphones to play music even when sleeping. The delivery rooms are not sound proof so you may hear someone else's birth which can be anxiety inducing.

• Review from the Spring 2022 Birthing Survey

  March 2022

  Mount Sinai West is a mixed bag. They have a brand new maternity wing with beautiful, comfortable private recovery rooms (complete with a sleeper couch for 1 support person); but also older, shared rooms that are much dingier and more cramped. You can’t be sure in advance what you’re going to get. The delivery room itself seemed fine, clean and well equipped (though I have no basis for comparison). At the time of my delivery (Nov 2021) they were allowing 2 support people present in the room with the birthing person; everyone had to wear masks. Due to COVID they weren’t providing some of their shared labor equipment (birth balls or peanut balls), you had to bring your own. They have valet parking but only Mon-Fri daytime hours; if you head there in active labor on a weekend or at night (as we did), best take a cab/Lyft or if driving, have a plan for who will park the car (indoor hospital parking down the block) while someone else helps the birthing person up to the labor ward. In my case, our Doula helped me up while my husband parked the car and joined us 10 mins later and that worked well. The hospital staff is also a mixed bag— most medical staff and nurses we encountered were great, kind and professional; but the overnight nurse who did our intake was brusque and scattered and caused the BIGGEST bruise I have ever seen on my right forearm with her shoddily inserted IV line. And the staff lactation counselor we saw after delivery was AWFUL. I found her to be judgemental and borderline mean. Nurses were far more helpful than she was — and even better, have a lactation counselor you already know and trust ready to come see you right after the birth. It makes a big difference I think. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Avoid the staff lactation counselor!

• Review from the Spring 2022 Birthing Survey

  March 2022

  The labor and delivery nurses at MSW were wonderful. Very attentive, helpful and respectful of my desire to have a low intervention birth. The postpartum experience though was not as great. Nurses were hit or miss and it sometimes took a while to get a response when I called for more medicine etc. I also asked to see the lactation consultant and they didn't come until the next day. There were two nurses who were absolutely stellar and they were both overnight which helped. It is also very loud - they serve meals on a schedule, and it was hard to get rest when it felt like people were constantly coming into your room. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Bring lots of snacks! Especially postpartum. You only get three meals a day but when you're breastfeeding you're definitely going to need more. Pandemic wise, private rooms weren't available because of COVID so that was hard to adjust to. Also the nursery wasn't open due to the pandemic but thankfully a nurse was very kind and took the baby for a few hours so we could take a nap.

• Review from the Spring 2022 Birthing Survey

  March 2022

  When we arrived at Mount Sinai West, we were greeted by an NP named Rachel who worked with us to expedite the process of securing an L&D room and hooking me up to nitrous oxide (pain management). The staff in L&D were all lovely and competent. While I initially requested not to have any trainees involved in my care, I changed my mind because the trainees I met (nurse trainee and OB resident) put me at ease. The L&D room was spacious enough to comfortably fit my spouse and doula without feeling crowded. The postpartum room, on the other hand, was terrible. Despite the ongoing Covid 19 pandemic, we shared a room with another family who, while lovely (we connected with them), had just gone through a traumatic birth. It was very awkward to not be able to give them the privacy they deserved to process what they had been through. The room itself was also incredibly small, which is common in NYC hospitals. We had the "better" side of the room near the window, which felt more secluded. That said, my spouse had to sleep on the floor and the other family's spouse slept upright in a chair. Support people should have a decent place to rest. Because of the uncomfortable room situation, we stayed just one night and pushed to discharge asap. Otherwise, there's an option to have your baby in-room or stay in the nursery, and the staff is non judgemental about either choice. We met briefly with the lactation consultant on staff the day after we delivered and found her to be a bit hurried and brusque. She walked us through basic breastfeeding positions and briefly assessed the baby's latch; we would have preferred a more comprehensive visit, but perhaps this is not to be expected at a busy teaching hospital. Overall, we had a very positive clinical experience and liked the staff, but the lack of private postpartum rooms was a big downside. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? It's helpful to be comfortable politely advocating for yourself; this is advisable at any high-volume hospital and not just Mount Sinai West. Courtesy with staff is the key, because L&D and postpartum staff work hard, and have been working hard through a years-long pandemic. That said, many hospitals are busy and speaking up for yourself can be important. My spouse brought a camping pad, which made sleeping on the floor more tolerable.

• Review from the Spring 2022 Birthing Survey

  March 2022

  My husband and I were impressed with Mount Sinai West multiple times, from the nursing staff who were absolutely phenomenal to the new post-delivery recovery rooms. It was as good of an experience as it could be. Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? We were informed when we arrived that we could not in fact request a private recovery room although we were told this was possible beforehand. Luckily the hospital has an entire floor of new rooms that are all private but whether you get one depends solely on how busy they are, not whether you are willing to pay.

• Review from the Spring 2022 Birthing Survey

  March 2022

  The hospital was nice and well-equipped. I never received medical care in a hospital so I didn't know what to expect. I interacted with three different nurse shifts during my 14-hour labor. They were different but helpful. I got my epidural early on, before pitocin was introduced. The nurses were helpful with pain management. However, I upped the epidural dose a bit too late, which made me a little too numb to push. Had to wait a bit to be able to feel the contractions again. I had to push for an hour because the fetal station was high (-1). I wish I could move my hips to engage the fetus. The new recovery room was nice and all-private. Food was mediocre but OK for two days. I didn't specifically ask for a private room. I don't know how much it would've cost but insurance was billed a ridiculous amount ($31k). Insurance paid about $16k and I paid ~$1,000 out of pocket. I also got a separate small bill for baby ($900).

• Review from the Spring 2022 Birthing Survey

  March 2022

  It was good, as my amazing doctor (Shulina) was there. The nurses were all kind and caring. The epidural docs were bro-y and swagger-y in an annoying way (but I think they always are..). The food was unnecessarily bad! Anything you advise people to do (or not do) at this hospital/birthing center? Highly recommend bringing your own food/snacks or ordering in. I ended up needing to share a room post-partum and the folks in the same room as me kept having people come in and out! It was terrible. The nurses tried to limit visitors but at the end of the day there's only so much they can do.. I wasn't able to (they said there was no way to get your own room even if you paid..) but I do recommend getting your own room if you can!

• Review from the Spring 2022 Birthing Survey

  March 2022

  Because I was having twins, we needed a place that had a high level NICU but my doctor was also affiliated here, so it worked perfectly. I was admitted twice (once at 32 weeks and once at 36 weeks when I ended up giving birth 3 days later) and had a great experience both times. Everyone was incredibly nice and thoughtful. I had all my confidence in the nurses and doctors. And as hard as having both my babies in the NICU was, the staff was incredible and made it a lot easier for me and my husband.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  February 2021

  MS West is an older hospital but the nurses and doctors were amazing! We learnt so much while there. We lucked out and had a private room (as our covid tests had not come back yet) and that was amazing. We got it for free but they are very expensive otherwise. The privacy does make a difference and your partner can stay over and has a real sleeper couch to sleep on vs. a chair in the shared room. The food is really terrible but you can order food in.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  February 2021

  Excellent and attentive staff. The food terrible though, so if possible plan on bringing snacks or your partner running out for food runs. The semi private rooms are as you would expect, with only a seat for partner to sleep in. Private rooms are very expensive but have a decent sleeper couch for partner. Overall a great hospital but definitely you don't want to stay for more than 2 days.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  February 2021

  Very good! My care team when I arrived at the hospital was amazing. The birthing experience itself was amazing as well, everyone was so thoughtful and caring, really attentive and wonderful. The recovery experience however was horrible. I am not sure if it was because it was COVID times but we had to share a room with two other new moms and it was really crowded and loud, it was really hard to get some rest. The nurses on the recovery floor were just ok? They didn't seem to communicate well and we often got conflicting instructions regarding my care.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  November 2020

  It's hard to separate the experience I had from what was normal/abnormal due to COVID. I found the facilities to be good overall, with a few exceptions: the delivery/labor room was nice, though the privacy curtain in my post-birth recovery room was partially missing and I had to share a room with another family. Nurses were a bit hit or miss: a handful were incredibly thoughtful and educational while a few others (while well intentioned) felt brusk and unhelpful.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  November 2020

  This hospital was clean and people were friendly. The single rooms are a necessity in my opinion - after a 24+ hour labor and ultimately a c-section, I was put in a double room which was terrible. I could reach from my bed to touch the wall on one side and the curtain that seperated us from the other person on the other side. There was barely enough room for my husband to sit in the one chair, and when my parents came in it was impossible to all be in the room at the same time. So the first few hours after birth were tough as we dealt with that, but we had been very up front with the staff we wanted a single room (which was about 800 / night I think - so not cheap but worth every penny in opinion), and fortunately one became available about 6-8 hours. The single room was HUGE, had a bed for my partner, space for my family to visit, all the food was actually quite good and a stuffed mini fridge full of drinks and snacks as well as the ability to order food room service style most of the day. Additionally, the nurses were great - both in L&D and also in recovery. I recommend, but it was my first baby so I guess I don't have much to compare it to!

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  November 2020

  My experience at Mount Sinai West was a positive one. The facilities were a little outdated, but overall nice. The nurses were for the most part approachable and easy to talk to. They also spend a lot of time assisting with breastfeeding (if this is something that interest you). We sent our baby to the nursery the first night, and generally didn’t find anyone to judge us for this decision, which I appreciated. I found that the attending physicians (both the anesthesiologist and the night pediatrician) were a bit short and rushed, but that was made up for by the very attentive residents. The nurse did require that I remain monitored constantly since I was being induced (she said this was hospital policy) which I wasn’t thrilled about - definitely something to ask about if this matters to you. After the birth, we had a shared room which was small, but fine. The hospital continuously provided food for both me and my husband which was nice. At the time they were allowing partners to stay overnight in shared rooms (although there was no where specific for them to sleep) but I think this may have been unique to the time (private rooms weren’t an option because they were reserved for Covid positive mothers).

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  November 2020

  The L&D rooms were not particularly inviting and just felt like a standard hospital room. There’s no birth specific equipment. Only one of four nurses was particularly kind and friendly, the others acted like they were busy and they didn’t mind me knowing that. The postpartum ward was completely different. We requested a private room which was amazing, and the nurses and healthcare assistants were all so lovely and helpful. We were first put in a shared room but it was tiny and nowhere for husband to sleep or use the bathroom. The nurse from that shared room was probably the nicest nurse we met though.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  Great experience. All the floor nurses were great. Our son spent his first 5 days in the NICU, and the nurses and staff there were extraordinary. His issues were small, so it wasn’t a very scary stay. But we didn’t even worry—they were all so wonderful. I was discharged before he was, and they let us stay in the parents’ room in the NICU that first night, since it was available. (It depends on whether there are other parents with greater need, or more critically ill babies.) And it was a NICU nurse, not the lactation consultant, who helped my get my baby to latch, when he and I were having trouble. Cannot recommend the hospital and NICU highly enough.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  fantastic. Much improved since I was there in 2016. In 2019 they were more caring and helpful and really helped with breastfeeding and made sure I was looked after.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  Loved the Mount Sinai class (taught by a doula) the Wild Was Mama class was a little crunchy for me.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  I gave birth during the height of Covid. You could only get a private room if you tested positive, so we had a shared one, which was cramped. Some nurses were better than others, both in L&D and recovery. I think it all depends on what nurses you get. I got to meet with an IBLBC a few times while I was there, which was helpful. Overall it was fine. I’d give birth there again. Doctors were good, food was fine, and we felt safe.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  I was deeply disappointed that Mt Sinai West closed its birthing center, but that sadly seems to be the direction of hospitals across the city. I stayed with Mt Sinai anyway because they seem to be the hospital most in support of unmedicated birth and midwife-led practices, and supportive of breastfeeding and keeping the baby close to the mother as much as possible. I was floored to learn that’s not common practice across the board. This was my second birth, and it happened so fast that I didn’t make it to a laboring room (I ended up on a cart in the OR), but the nurses gave my midwife space and authority, so it was all good. One warning to share was that we were told all the recovery rooms were full, so we’d be moved to a private room for free. Then they tried to charge us the next day. So be warned to get it in writing if something similar happens to you!

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  Good overall - friendly and knowledgeable staff, quiet floors, but no shared postpartum rooms because of COVID

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  I did not think much of my experience at Mount Sinai West. Not a single nurse was anything more than neutral to me the entire time—not in triage, not during delivery, and not in postpartum. Some were actively rude or openly annoyed at me. I need anti anxiety meds before I get IVs and it took them four hours to get them to me from when I asked, and only after I had a panic attack. And they made it clear they thought it was a ridiculous request the entire time. Also, frankly, the hospital was dirty. The one time I took a shower it was just to wash my hair because I couldn't deal with actually washing myself there. I stayed in the shared room and it was fine—everyone was very conscientious to the extent possible with two newborns present. If it had been my first birth, maybe I would have sprung for the super expensive single room.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  I gave birth in July and while some pandemic restrictions had been relaxed, there were a lot of protocols in place. In general the staff was great except for one resident who messed up my epidural. It was a little chaotic postpartum but I think that was pandemic-related. For example one night the nursery was closed and another day it was tough to see a lactation consultant. But these were minor things overall.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  Great birthing experience overall - I had a complications during labor, and my baby had to spend a few days in the Nicu, but the doctors and nurses were fantastic. The only downside I see to the hospital is the billing system...four months after giving birth and I am still dealing with It! bills from different departments come at different times, some by letter, some by text message, some online...I wish they had a centralized system where to receive and pay everything.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  I chose them for the birth of my first based on their now shuttered birthing center (which I didn't end up using), and stayed with them for my second because I couldn't quit my OB, even though it meant commuting to Manhattan. Honestly, it's not the hospital I would choose if I were choosing a hospital, but I had a fine experience there. I had great nurses in L&D and recovery. I ended up in triage a few times with each pregnancy for prenatal scares. Those experiences were mixed. I used a training doula for my first and again for my second (when she was much more experienced), and I would recommend that - especially if it's your first birth. In hindsight, with my second, there was a bit of a bait and switch with my anesthesiologist, and my doula was a calming influence during that.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  Meals were surprisingly good. Rooms were cleaned. All the nurses we had during delivery were very nice. Did not feel 'rushed' at all.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  We would definitely deliver at Mount Sinai West again. We had excellent care, including for an unplanned c-section, night in the NICU, and jaundice. The facilities were clean and the NICU is new and gorgeous.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  I gave birth to both of my children at Mount Sinai West and had a great experience both times (even during a pandemic). The labor and delivery nurses are incredibly kind and supportive and went above and beyond for me during both of my labors. The postpartum nurses were also quite helpful.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  Great! During covid I couldn’t have felt safer or have experience more amazing care, including a nicu stay.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  I would avoid this hospital if possible. At the moment, if you are COVID-free, you will be placed in a shared postpartum room. Odds are high that it will be noisy, so bring your earplugs, eye masks, and sound machines! Ask lots of questions about the tests and procedures you're undergoing, and the drugs you're taking, because that information will not be volunteered. My anesthesiologist tried and failed to install a spinal block THREE TIMES, eventually resulting in a c-section under general anesthesia, which is no one's idea of chill delivery. I was also catheterized four times without sedation, and the latter three times failed! After much weeping, I was able to convince my OB that I could just as effectively pee into a bedpan. In the midst of said weeping, a teaching doctor brought in two medical students to give me an ultrasound, pointing out my internal organs. I felt like a mannequin, not like a human. The only bright spots were the nurses, who uniformly treated me with kindness and understanding. Heroes, all of them.

• Review from the 2020 Birthing Experience Survey

  August 2020

  I received wonderful care at Mount Sinai West. I really hate hospitals, having had a past traumatic experience, and was dreading it and anticipating dehumanizing and disempowering treatment. Instead, the doctors and nurses tried hard to follow my birth plan (even as many of the items had to be thrown out the window) and listened to my preferences. Almost everyone was warm and caring, as well as clear in their communication. I never felt disregarded or neglected. Despite being induced and thus being on pitocin, I was able to avoid an epidural, which was my goal, and I appreciated that no one ever pressured me to get one. The biggest downside is that their single recovery rooms are very, very expensive--still, if you can swing it, I really recommend getting one!

• Private room on a PPO plan at Mount Sinai West?

  January 2020

  my understanding when I was there was that the private rooms are first come first serve (and are $900/night) doesn’t matter what you plan ppo etc. is, since it’s an up grade it’s out of pocket. They recommend putting your credit card as a holder once you are admitted, I don’t think they allow you to before that. I went into labor and delivered on Friday (which is one of the busiest nights) and we did not get a room). All the other rooms are doubles and even if you are the only one in it at the start of the night often a new mom will be put in before the end of the night. Since they took away the birthing center (at the start of this year 2019) I believe there are more rooms available since when I gave birth (oct. 2018).

• Private room on a PPO plan at Mount Sinai West?

  January 2020

  I had both of my kids at Mount Sinai West (the first was born before they switched names). Both times I was able to secure a private room without much fuss. The second time they didn’t ask, so much husband went and requested one. But, it all worked out. We had an awesome experience. The staff was amazing. Hope you have the same!

• ObGyn who uses ultrasound at checkups

  October 2019

  Mt. Sinai West Doctors definitely do. Dr. Bradley is great, but all the doctors in the practice are good. The kicker is the commute.

• Mt. Sinai West v. Cornell

  August 2019

  I delivered both my children at my Sinai west and had excellent experiences. They were both scheduled inductions, and I was able to go in at the planned time and experienced no overcrowding. I didn’t even have a roommate in my “shared” recovery room for most of my stay with my daughter. The nurses and my ob (dr Chuu who delivered both my kids and who I cannot recommend enough) we’re truly amazing- so supportive, kind and knowledgeable. It was a very positive experience and I highly recommend it.

• Mt. Sinai West v. Cornell

  August 2019

  I delivered at MSW in October. The doctor on call from my practice convinced me to go to the hospital when I called wondering if my water had broke two months early. Turns out it had and roughly 24 hours later, my son arrived. We hadn't even taken a tour of the hospital yet, but found all of the staff incredibly supportive. One of the overnight L&D nurses didn't seem to know exactly what was going on (that the monitor wasn't picking up my contractions when they first started around midnight) but it was my first pregnancy/labor and in hindsight, I was actually relieved that I didn't know I was in active labor (two months early) for the first several hours. Not that you would need this - but the NICU doctors and nurses were phenomenal and I really appreciated the nurses on the post-partum floor. It would have been nice to have had my own room - but the nurses are in quite often to check on you, so I'm not sure how much sleep I would have gotten in my own room. However then my husband would have been able to stay with me... Ultimately I think I would return to MSW if I am pregnant again despite having to share a room (you can get your own for an exorbitant fee) because of our positive experience with our practice (Dr. Katrina Bradley and team were amazing) the nurses and within the NICU.

• Mt. Sinai West v. Cornell

  August 2019

  My experience at MSW 8 months ago was average-perhaps poor. On the upside, I found the waiting area to be run fairly efficiently. I called ahead when my contractions were 2min apart and got to the hospital at 7cm. As quickly as they could move me to triage and then a delivery room, they did (maybe about 45min in total). While waiting to be moved there were about 5 or 6 other people waiting to be seen. One also in labor. They seem to really prioritize who needs a room most urgently and go from there. I never saw anyone laboring in the hallways during several visits to L&D. Where it went downhill for me was the nursing staff and auxiliary doctors (anasthesiologist). The nurse I spent the most time with had been newly transferred from MSE and you would have thought it was her first day of nursing school. She was super stressed out, kept confusing my heart rate with the baby’s heart rate (triggering emergency teams to rush into my room unnecessarily), didn’t understand how to use/read the equipment. If I had occurred to me (sadly it didn’t cause I had been laboring for about 36 hours by that point) I would have requested she be replaced. She was AWFUL. The anesthesiologist who was on call to oversee epidurals refused to do as asked when I wanted the epidural halved for pushing. We got into an argument. In both instances the OB monitoring my care had to speak with the nurse and the anesthesiologist in the hall. I can’t say my nursing after care was much better. My mom, who was a professor of Maternal, Neonatal, and Newborn nursing for 40 years was outraged at the nursing care (and she wasn’t present for the birth)-to the point she wrote a letter after I was discharged. All I have to compare it to was a few visits to NYU L&D triage, super crowded, but I found the nurses to be more knowledgeable and supportive. All in all I was satisfied with how my birth went, but not necessarily because of the hospital. If I were to deliver again I would have to think long and hard if I would go back.

• Mt. Sinai West v. Cornell

  August 2019

  My son is 11 months old and I delivered at Mt Sinai West last August. I spent 8 hours or so in triage because they didn't have a delivery room available. I couldn't get an epidural because it was overnight and they won't give an epidural overnight in triage for some reason. They didn't monitor me much in triage which was a bit nerve wracking but also good because I was able to stand up the whole time and waddle to the bathroom down the hall a ton (turns out my son's head was on my bladder). I really like my OB which is why we ended up there but the idea of delivering there again someday makes me anxious. I don't have any complaints about the care post delivery.

• Mt. Sinai West v. Cornell

  August 2019

  I had my baby at Mt Sinai West in 2016. Overcrowding was a bit of an issue. Mine was a planned induction, and even though I was schedule to go to the hospital at 4 it wasn't until after 8 that I was finally hooked up with everything. They seemed to not have the right equipment... we had to wait to start the pitocin because they didn't have enough iv drip machines (this is a hospital! They really couldn't scrounge one up from somewhere???). They didn't have wireless monitoring so I was stuck in bed the entire time. And when I had to go to the bathroom they put a bed pan in an upholstered chair. I had to hold myself up with my arms and hover over the bedpan to pee or it would tip over. It was terrible. This would not be an issue if you don't need continuous monitoring though. Honestly, the only thing that made it okay was my midwife. The nurse was fine but not outstanding in any way. I gave birth before 11 and it was not until 4 am that I got settled into a room. The nurses there were fine, again, not outstanding, but generally reliable and kind. They did screw up my birth certificate though. Basically I was told to email the name of my daughter to a person that no longer worked there, and when I called the phone number it was for the same person who didn't work there. I left voice mail after voice mail and finally got the head of the hospital involved. Hopefully they've gotten the staffing issue figured out by now! What was astonishing to me is that NO ONE seemed to know that person was gone and that the office they handled birth certificates was unstaffed. I guess that's a pretty damning review. I wouldn't give birth there again. But I'm not sure the other hospitals are significantly better.

• Mt. Sinai West v. Cornell

  August 2019

  I delivered at Mt Sinai West in June, and had a good experience. I selected that hospital for the birth center, which unfortunately closed in December 2018. I worked with a midwife practice (associated with Dr Paka - would recommend them!), and while I didn't have my ideal birth I had a very good experience. The L&D nurses were great. I had to be induced so wasn't able to do a lot of walking or other non medical pain management but I never felt judged or worried. I like that they offer the gas as a pain management option, which I believe is not common for city hospitals. The waiting room before we went in was a bit full though not crowded, but it was all people waiting to be induced, no one in active labor. Once I went in I didn't see anyone in the hallway or without a room. I would plan to deliver there again

• Mt. Sinai West v. Cornell

  August 2019

  I just delivered at Mount Sinai West and had an overall great experience. To the specific question of overcrowding, I didn't experience anything concerning. I was induced so we waited a long while in the triage waiting room but we knew to expect that since I wasn't in active labor. A woman who came in in active labor was taken back into a delivery room quickly. And once I was taken into the back I was put directly into a room. The nurses and staff were overall truly wonderful. There were one or two residents who came through who I didn't love but all of the nurses were exceptionally kind, knowledgeable, and helpful and I felt that I got great care from the doctors during labor and postpartum. I've been hospitalized in a different hospital before and didn't have nearly as positive an experience with the staff.

• Mt. Sinai West v. Cornell

  August 2019

  I gave birth at Mt Sinai West in January 2019, and I highly recommend it. I felt I was in very good care the entire time I was there (arrived on a Thursday morning to be induced on my due date due to high amniotic fluid levels, and gave birth at 4am on Friday morning, left on Saturday afternoon). My midwife delivered my baby and was wonderful in coaching me through the pushing. I had a doula present who was also supportive and encouraging. We used the shared recovery room, but I ended up having the room to myself most of the time. My husband went home to sleep after the baby and I were settled in on Friday morning. That was best because he’d been up all night. I really just felt taken care of and supported the entire time. They offered a few newborn care and breastfeeding classes that I wish I’d attended, but honestly I just needed the rest to recover from the labor and delivery. I would recommend Mt Sinai West, and if I have another child I plan to return there. The only problem was getting our Lyft driver to find the entrance!

• Mt. Sinai West v. Cornell

  August 2019

  I delivered at Mt. Sinai West a year and a half ago and had a pretty good experience. Re: overcrowding - they did seem to be quite busy. I had a scheduled induction and was originally told to come in at 3 am when it would not be busy. Luckily, my ob told me to call before and because it turned out to be very busy at 3 am I didn't get the ok to come in until 10. Even so, I waited until about 2pm for a bed - understandably, I was not a high priority for beds. Once I got into a room, everything went pretty smoothly. I found all the nurses and specialists to be warm and kind and they listened to me. My ob was also responsive to what I needed and what I told her was working or not working and nobody pushed me to get an epidural but when I was ready for one, I got it very quickly. I was monitored because of the induction but was able to stand up and walk around as long as the monitor stayed on. My ob stayed several hours after her shift until my daughter was born. My post delivery experience was good also. The nurses were competent and friendly and available as needed. I delivered there 12 years ago also when it was Roosevelt and I can say that my experience this time was better. The facility seemed more run down 12 yrs ago.

• Mt. Sinai West v. Cornell

  August 2019

  I chose Mt. Sinai West because of their in-hospital birthing center, and chose my OB because she was one of a handful of physicians able to deliver there. But I ultimately risked out of the birthing center because my baby was estimated to be on the larger side (and boy, did that turn out to be true.) I was induced on my due date on the regular L&D floor. The pitocin (and another minor unexpected medical issue) meant that I was confined to the bed and not able to labor sitting/standing/etc. which was disappointing. My Dr. let me give it my all but I ended up delivering by c-section 36 hours later. Things went far from as hoped for, including with a few medical complications (some brought on by the lengthy laboring). But all along the way, I felt I was in extremely good hands. I'd never been admitted to a hospital before and I remember getting emotional thinking about how much care I was being shown by so many people, especially post-partum - it's a vulnerable time! I didn't witness any overcrowding. And, when we checked in to L&D for my induction, the Dr. who ultimately delivered me (an associate from my OB's practice) told me, we're a bit backed up; go have a big meal and come back in two hours! I was so grateful for that because I didn't eat for another several days after that. (I don't remember wanting to eat while in labor but I don't think it would have been encouraged.) I do remember one poor lady yelling at her poor husband in the L&D waiting area saying she felt "very alone here!" so I don't know what that was about but that was not our experience.

• [ANONYMOUS] Mt. Sinai West v. Cornell

  August 2019

  I just delivered at Mount Sinai West and had an overall great experience. To the specific question of overcrowding, I didn't experience anything concerning. I was induced so we waited a long while in the triage waiting room but we knew to expect that since I wasn't in active labor. A woman who came in in active labor was taken back into a delivery room quickly. And once I was taken into the back I was put directly into a room. The nurses and staff were overall truly wonderful. There were one or two residents who came through who I didn't love but all of the nurses were exceptionally kind, knowledgeable, and helpful and I felt that I got great care from the doctors during labor and postpartum. I've been hospitalized in a different hospital before and didn't have nearly as positive an experience with the staff.

• 2019 Birth Survey

  March 2019

  It's nice at Mt Sinai West, but far from PS. (Though my water broke at home and I still had plenty of time to get there.) The team was really great, and I felt well taken care of and informed every step of the way. I was able to get a private room and my husband was able to stay with me and the baby.

• 2019 Birth Survey

  March 2019

  The birthing room was perfect, and the private room where I stayed for 3 days, was definitely worth the price. Great food for the mother comes with the private room too!

• 2019 Birth Survey

  March 2019

  Lack of communication with nurses was frustrating. Fairly straight forward birth, so this wasn’t a huge deal, but not sure how I’d feel if there were complications

• 2019 Birth Survey

  March 2019

  I had a pretty good experience at the hospital. It wasn't luxurious by any means, but I don't think giving birth is ever considered a luxurious experience. My nurses were all truly fantastic. I was a bit disappointed to share a room and how little privacy that came with. I didn't think it wasn't worth the $1200/night to have a private room for the three nights... but if I could choose another hospital where I didn't have to choose/pay extra to have my own room, I would go elsewhere!

• 2019 Birth Survey

  March 2019

  Nurses were great but I had a bad roommate and found out afterwards I could have asked for a different room

• 2019 Birth Survey

  March 2019

  We had a great experience with Mount Sinai West (MSW) with both deliveries (2016 and 2018). The birth of my daughter in 2016 was slightly more enjoyable, because we were in the Birthing Center, and had a whole room to ourselves with very attentive nursing staff. In 2018, we didn't get in to the Birthing Center because it was closed. We still had a good experience in the hospital, it just felt more like we were in a hospital. :) All of the nurses were great though, and we had a really good lactation consultant, who helped with some early nursing issues.

• 2019 Birth Survey

  March 2019

  I liked it. The lactation consultant was excellent, and most of the nurses were really responsive and sweet.

• 2019 Birth Survey

  March 2019

  I was in a shared room with someone else who had visitors very late and the staff didn't really enforce any limits. They would gently say visiting hours were over but it was a bit frustrating. It was late and I was exhausted and bf-ing on demand.

• 2019 Birth Survey

  March 2019

  It was fine I guess. I barely interacted with the staff there. Unfortunately, the birthing center was closed that night. The person at the front desk was unfriendly and unhelpful and there were no triage rooms available for maybe 40 minutes (at 3am). Then, once in triage there were no labor rooms available for another 4.5 hours. And the nurse there was unfriendly - this didn't matter, as she only came in a few times to apply the monitor and then remove it. I completely labored in triage and was transferred to a room, where I had my baby 35 minutes later. I was essentially cared for by my midwives, doula and husband - and I wouldn't want it any different. The postpartum ward was fine - it turned out sharing a room wasn't the end of the world, especially since I only spent 24 hours there.

• 2019 Birth Survey

  March 2019

  Excellent! The hospital didn't seem very nice at first (it is somewhat dated), but the care was excellent. Labor and delivery room was very nice, the L&D nurses amazing, and the private room, although expensive, totally worth it. My husband could stay with me and all of the nurses and doctors were excellent. Lactation consultants were a little aggressive, but next time I will choose to ignore them!

• 2018 Birth Survey

  November 2018

  Great! Though the night nurses were way better than the day nurses. Loved those night nurses! The hospital was not as nice as Mt Sinai North, but it had heart!

• 2018 Birth Survey

  November 2018

  Perfectly fine! It's not the Ritz but the nurses were lovely and my birth experience was uneventful (which is all you can hope for!).

• 2018 Birth Survey

  November 2018

  I was very happy at Mount Sinai West. I was induced and was told to come in at 8:00 am. Fortunately, my doula told me to call first before going in to make sure there was a bed for me. I called at 7:00 am and was told there was no space and they would call me to let me know when there was room. By 10:30 I still hadn't heard from them so I called and was told there still wasn't room, they had my name on a list and would call. I got a call at 3:30pm to come in. Once there, everyone was very kind. During my labor, nobody was really around and it was just my husband and I laboring in the room. I did end up getting an epidural. The anesthesiologist and her team were amazing. Dr. Paka delivered my baby and the nurse that was on call at the time was truly a godsend. My daughter needed emergency surgery on day 2. Mt Sinai West does not have pediatric surgery in the building. She needed to be transferred crosstown to Mt Sinai East into the NICU and to have surgery. The team at Mt Sinai East were truly incredible. The NICU was amazing and I just felt like my daughter was in really good hands. She spent 3 weeks there and is now at home happy and healthy as can be.

• 2018 Birth Survey

  November 2018

  I had a complicated birth and got excellent care.

• 2018 Birth Survey

  November 2018

  We had a pretty good experience overall. I loved my delivery doctors, for sure, and we were taken great care of throughout the entire time. My one complaint or issue was the discharge process. Somehow the birth certificate information was neglected, and we had a short window (once we were already home) to send in paperwork. Long story short, make sure everything has been truly taken care of!

• 2018 Birth Survey

  November 2018

  I felt like their stance for a natural birth is more of a selling attraction than actuality since their merger with Mt. Sinai east. Everyone I know that went there recently has been induced or had a csection. They had us pay for the birthing center class when I later found out it had been closed for months and later closed permanently. The l&d rooms were small, dark with dirty tubs and no wireless monitoring. The l&d nurses were rude, absent and failed to increase my pitocin on schedule. The obs had few recommendations or patience when my induction was slow to progress in 36hrs, which I later learned is not unusual or a bad sign for first-time moms. The ob (Kanos) went above and beyond to try to accommodate my request for a gentle csection even though it clearly wasn’t the norm. The private rooms and food were very good but expensive. My baby was never separated from my partner or me per our wished. The maternity ward nurses were lovely but didn’t coordinate their checks and interrupted us all night. I felt pressured to feed my baby formula in order to get discharged, and the lactation consultants were useless. I had to immediately find lactation support at home. They did support my wish for an early discharge.

• 2018 Birth Survey

  November 2018

  "I absolutely loved Mount Sinai West (formerly Roosevelt Hospital). I basically was looking for a place that makes it feel like you are having a home birth and that is what they would have provided if circumstances had been slightly different. The Birthing Center is lovely and the nurses were (almost) universally great. They treated me and my wife like reasonable humans and some were even funny! I didn't end up delivering in the Birthing Center because the baby came too fast and had some meconium (almost delivered in triage!). But since I had been registered as a Birth Center patient they treated us as such. No IV, no pushing for extra procedures, tests etc. We did treat ourselves to a private room after the birth and it was so worth it for us. My wife could sleep in the extra bed, our family could come and go and the food service was actually quite good! I had also had to go to Mt. Sinai for some complications early in my pregnancy and everyone I worked with was respectful and kind and listened to what I had to say. I have heard that they are closing the birthing center at Mt. Sinai West, at least for awhile, but that they still plan on offering Birth Center style deliveries for those who want them. I'm not exactly sure what that means. I think its worth investigating though. We just had a great experience there."

• Mount Sinai West Review

  December 2017

  I had a great experience at Mount Sinai West. I had a hard & long birth and the entire staff there was so helpful and friendly throughout my time there. I had an unplanned c-section and things went so smoothly. The care was constant and the nursing staff is amazing. I had so many questions and someone always came to answer them quickly. The lactation support is wonderful. I had 3 in room visits. Also the newborn photos were so adorable. I could not have been happier with them. I didn't want to leave after my three day stay. After the birth I had, we got a private room, which we weren't necessarily planning on but it was just what we needed at the time. It is expensive but it's the same price as every hospital in NYC. We had no issues getting the room. Also I was nervous letting my baby go to the nursery but realized upon checking out that he had 4 tags on him, one on each leg and arm, so there was going to be no issues mixing him up. They also have a very good system - any time you leave or accept your baby you have to verbally say the code only you and your baby have that matches. This made me feel so comfortable handing him away so I could sleep for an hour of two. The nursing staff from Labor and Delivery to Postpartum were all top notch. I felt so lucky. My friend is giving birth here soon and I'm excited to go back and say hi to everyone. Also I originally choose this hospital for the Birthing Center, but the spent all my time on the regular L&D floor. The epidural was easy (painless) and worth it in the end for me. The anesthesiologist was so so calming and walked me through every step. He was one of my favorite people at the hospital. One more thing - just visited my friend at NYU and the postpartum rooms are much larger at MSW.

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  December 2017

  Happy with my experience and care. Based on a 10/9/17 birthing experience.

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  December 2017

  I had a good experience. The nurses were excellent. Based on a August 2017 birthing experience.

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  December 2017

  I loved my experience at Mount Sinai West. The nurses were kind and friendly and the facilities were very clean and warm. They had no open rooms though so I had to deliver in the Operating Room, which was not ideal. Based on a September 2017 birthing experience.

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  December 2017

  I found the hospital to be helpful, efficient, and pleasant. My experience was stellar. I only wish the private room was less expensive; felt very exclusive but all necessary to have my husband stay overnight. Based on a September 2017 birthing experience.

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  September 2017

  I had a fantastic experience here. I came in at 7am on a Sunday in active labor, and didn't step foot in the triage room--was taken straight back to an exam room, and once they determined that I was 3cm dilated, was then moved to a L&D room. I had an epidural within an hour of stepping foot in the hospital. I had wonderful care throughout my labor. There was meconium in my water when it broke, and a pediatrician was waiting next to my bed as I delivered so he could clear her lungs the second she was born. It also felt reassuring to know that there was a NICU in the building. We were fortunately able to secure a private room, which was well worth the money (and we did not have a lot of extra $$ to be throwing around.) One caveat to this otherwise stellar review--I had an exam at the same hospital two days prior going into labor, and ended up waiting in the triage room for 6 hours to get hooked up to an IV. Pregnant women with scheduled c-sections were waiting just as long. It was evidently an especially busy day/time, but still--I was terrified to go back and deliver there. I was lucky to have the complete opposite experience with my delivery. Based on a April 2017 birthing experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  September 2017

  Can't say enough good things about the nurses. I hugged them all when I left. We sprung for a private room which I highly recommend if you can swing it. Based on a April 2017 birthing experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  September 2017

  We had such a great experience here! The entire staff were great, nice, relaxed and incredibly helpful. We were very well taken care of. Based on a July 2017 birthing experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  September 2017

  Overcrowding is a serious issue here. There seems to be strain from the addition of the practices (OBs, nurses etc) that were brought over from Beth Israel, too, and they are bursting at the seams. The staff was excellent and the facility was very clean and seemingly up to date. There are a limited number of private rooms and not enough staff available to help with discharge so there was a long delay for us to get any room, let alone a private one. Based on a April 2017 birthing experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  May 2017

  Low reviews here. We had my older child here and had a great experience... apparently it is now owned by mt Sinai and everything from service to facilities went down hill...the triage seemed understaffed and bureaucratic and inefficient...I loved the post partum care with my older child- this time I could not wait to get out...bed was broken / buzzer was broken/ food was inedible/ nurses were nice but weren't that attentive... Based on an October 2016 Birth Experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  May 2017

  I wanted to go to the Birth Center, which sounds fantastic, but ended up having to be induced. The standard L and D experience was okay. We were scheduled to be there at 6 and arrived on time, but had to wait an hour before they put us in a room. They didn't have great equipment. For instance, I needed two pumps, one for the saline drip and one for the pitocin. It took them over an hour to locate two pumps. This is a hospital, shouldn't you have pumps??? They don't have wireless monitoring, so if you need continuous monitoring you are stuck on the bed or in the two feet of space directly next to the bed. Their pumps have no batteries either, so they need to stay plugged in. What made this terrible was when I had to go to the bathroom. They didn't have a portable bed pan/ toilet, like I used in my previous birth (in another state). So.... and this still horrifies me... every time I had to go they would drag forward an upholstered chair, put some of those absorbent, disposable sheets on it, and put a bed pan on top. I had to balance myself and basically hover over the bed pan. Not cool, especially since, as a laboring mom, you have to go, a lot! Made me not want to go. I was so grateful to have my midwife there managing the induction. She made everything okay. That said, they were very good about doing everything I wanted post birth. Daddy got to catch our little one. Baby was put on chest immediately. Umbilical cord was not cut until it stopped pulsating. Again, not sure how much of this was because my midwife was managing the birth and this was their standard practice. We were left to bond, and there was little delay in getting to a recovery room. Recovery was okay. I had a shared room since the private rooms are very expensive. The nurses were generally very good, some were standouts and made me feel very comfortable. They were good about staying on top of my pain medication. They left me alone for the most part because I was a second time mom and pretty much assured them I was okay and I would ask for help if necessary, so this was just fine with me. Having baby beside you is standard. They did have to take baby away to nursery to have her tests, and they were gone an awful long time... like an hour, which seemed too long a time for just a heel prick. I was exclusively breastfeeding, and they seemed good about making sure she would not get any formula while she was in the nursery. One thing that sucks is that you have to call the nurse every time you want to use the bathroom during visiting hours because of security reasons. Seems like they could just increase security so you don't have to do this, because there were times when I really had to go, and it took a while for the nurse to get there. At the other hospital I gave birth at each baby was given an ankle bracelet that would sound an alarm if it were moved too far away. Another thing is that there was a lot of confusion about the birth certificate. I had to call to give them the name because my husband and I hadn't decided before we left. But the contact information I got from the nurse turned out to be obsoleteso I was calling and leaving messages for someone who was no longer there, but still had active voice message. After a couple weeks of this I called the main hospital information line, and was given the same number. Finally, we sent and email describing our situation to the person in charge of patient services, who was very quick to respond. Long story short, they were going through some restructuring, so hopefully the situation is solved, but the whole thing seemed very incompetent and badly managed. Based on 12/2016 birth experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  May 2017

  It felt like it was a good, well-equipped hospital, but much of the birthing experience has to do with what nurse(s) you get. I had one through much of labor that had very strong opinions that she did not keep to herself regarding how women should approach and feel about labor, childbirth, and anesthesia. She made some fairly outrageous comments, and was incredibly judgmental. I also think my epidural was delayed because of her own negative opinions about getting one. Thankfully, I had another nurse during actual delivery who was more supportive. I had complications in the days following delivery, and it was hard to get it communicated to to the right doctors so that I could get treatment. I ended up being in terrible pain for longer than I should have been, as I could not communicate directly to the anesthesia team (who had told me to let them know if I had any problems), but had to ask the nurses to contact my OBGYN who then had to contact anesthesia. It seems that some of the nurses weren't believing I had as big of a complication as I did, or were choosing to [mis]diagnose it as a smaller problem than it was. That said, I had other nurses who were truly amazing at caring for me and my newborn, and I always had confidence that my newborn had the care and treatment that was needed while there. Based on November, 2016 birth experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  April 2017

  Great. Ended up on L&D with induction but had been planning birth center. Loved my midwives so that was the real core of the experience but our nurses were really wonderful. Based on July 2016 birth experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  April 2017

  We had a very positive experience at Mt. Sinai West. We had originally intended to deliver in the Birthing Center, but I had with one of the risk factors that made me ineligible, so we ended up in regular labor and delivery instead. All of our nurses were wonderful and made us feel completely informed and cared for. We chose to pay for a private room so my wife would be able to spend the night; it was expensive, but it was really nice to be together the whole time and it comes with white glove treatment - free parking if you need it, concierge service, white linen tablecloth room service (really). My mom couldn't believe how swanky the room and entire experience was! Based on January 2017 birth experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  April 2017

  The hostpital facility and staff were wonderful. My baby was 10 days late, so I spent a lot of time on the Fetal Evaulation Unit (FEU) towards the end of my pregnancy. The nurses were very responsive and helpful during labor and recovery. I was surprised to learn that the hospital gives every new mom/family a cake the day after the baby is born. Also, the nutritionalist doubled up my portions so that my husband could eat with me. I opted for a shared recovery room (which my insurance fully covered) but they offer private rooms first come first served for an extra cost per night. In the shared room, regular visiting hours are 11am-8:30pm, with extended hours for your designated support person (8:30am-11:00pm)... although I remember him coming even earlier in the morning! Based on October 2016 birth experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  April 2017

  I was really happy with Mt. Sinai West. The labor and delivery rooms are a bit on the small side, but every staff member I dealt with was extremely caring, attentive, and professional. They are currently the only hospital in NYC that offers nitrous oxide, which was clutch during my labor, and I think all of the nurses I met were certified as lactation consultants, which was clutch once I had a baby. The private rooms are nice and the food they serve there is even good. I also highly recommend their post-partum breastfeeding class; I'd read a bunch about breastfeeding, but there's no substitute for learning it hands-on with a real baby in your arms. Based on 12/2017 birth experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  April 2017

  Superb; expert staff, baby-first mentality, flexible and responsive care, top-notch facilities (especially the private rooms) Based on Jan 2017 birth experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  April 2017

  Amazing, top notch, incredibly caring nursing staff, in particular during recovery. Based on September 2016 birth experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  April 2017

  They are fine. Birth and sharing a room right after are never awesome, but I have no complaints. Based on Sept 2016 birth experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  April 2017

  The Birthing Center at Mount Sinai West was a great experience and I highly recommend it, especially to anyone hoping to have an intervention-free birth. I arrived at the hospital, went directly to one of the birthing center room (instead of having to deal with triage), which had a regular double bed instead of a hospital bed and jacuzzi tub. The nurse was absolutely fantastic and the floor was calm and not overcrowded. After the delivery we got to stay in the same room and my husband was able to spend the night there with me instead of having to pay for a private room. They left us alone all night instead of other hospitals where I hear they come in to check you constantly and don't give you any time to rest. A few minor complaints is that a few details got lost in the mix, like a vaccination that my midwife ordered that they forgot about and never did, waiting a long time for the pediatrician to come, and less than stellar lactation advice. Based on September 2016 birth experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  April 2017

  I could not be happier with Mount Sinai West. The nurses were warm and patient, the anesthesiologist were professional and comforting, and the facilities were comfortable and clean. I did not want an epidural and the entire staff was extremely supportive and helped with my pain management. In the end, I opted for the epi and everyone made me feel good about my decision and did all they could to make me comfortable. Once the baby was here the nurses were knowledgeable and attentive, making sure we all had what we needed. All of our wishes were carefully followed (delayed cord clamping, skin to skin, exclusively breast feeding etc.) and we didn't feel pushed or forced into any situation. Smooth and pleasant experience all around! Based on December 2016 birth experience

• Review submitted via the PSP Birth Survey

  April 2017

  We had one experience with a sonogram tech that was incredibly disappointing. She was surly, didn't want to answer questions and generally an unpleasant person. Everyone else was wonderful. I had an incredible nurse by my side the entire labor. Professional and caring. I ended up seeing a diabetic specialist and she was so helpful and spent a lot of time with me at an unplanned appointment. The nurses in post partum were a little bit hands off (at that vulnerable moment, I could have used a little bit more hand holding), but eventually I realized I just needed to ask for more help and I got it. Based on July 2016 birth experience

• Review submitted via the 2016 Birth Survey

  November 2016

  I had a great experience with both of my deliveries there! Nurses are attentive and L&D rooms are clean and as comfortable as possible given you are in a hospital. Based on June 2016 birthing experience

• Review submitted via the 2016 Birth Survey

  October 2016

  I delivered in 2012 but did not get into the Birthing Center because it was closed. This was common then. I was so pleased to be admitted here this time. The room was comfortable. It was great to have my husband sleep in the room (we had a queen bed), and it was free as opposed to the private rooms they charge $900 for on the regular L&D floor. The Birthing Center nurse, Laurie, was so wonderful, we nominated her for an award. She was a better member of the team than the doula we hired. Based on July 2016 birthing experience

• Review submitted via the 2016 Birth Survey

  October 2016

  I thought the hospital staff was knowledgeable and very helpful. I learned various breastfeeding positions, how to swaddle and also how to take care of myself. Some nurses were harsh and expressed opinions I didn't think they should have. Overall though I liked my experience there. Based on June 2016 birthing experience

• Review submitted via the 2016 Birth Survey

  October 2016

  I delivered both my children at Mt. Sinai West (formerly St. Luke Roosevelt). The pre-partum staff were excellent as were the birthing nurses. Overall, the postpartum nurses are excellent but it was a bit more hit and miss, as they have a lot of patients to cover (I can't speak for those who got private rooms, perhaps that is different). The other staff were also a bit hit and miss, it always felt like the left hand didn't know what right hand was up to. And it was sometimes hard to get a nurse or other staff when you needed one, but it wasn't the end of the world. That said, it was a better experience with the lactation consultants/nurses this time (my older child was both in 2012) - they were more on top of helping the mothers, etc. Based on April 2016 birthing experience

• Review submitted via the 2016 Birth Survey

  October 2016

  Excellent Based on August 2016 birthing experience

• Review submitted via the 2016 Birth Survey

  October 2016

  I had an amazing experience at Mount Sinai West. I delivered in the birthing center and was able to stay for over a day, until I was ready to leave. (I think I was very lucky in this) The nurse at my delivery was amazing. She worked as part of the team with my midwife and doula and her coaching was invaluable to me. The postpartum nurses were also very helpful and kind. I would deliver there again. Based on May 2016 birthing experience

• Review submitted via the 2016 Birth Survey

  October 2016

  Mount Sinai Roosevelt was okay -- I would go there again. I liked that everyone was certified to help with breastfeeding and there were lactations consultants available as well. I did not like that my doctor and the admitting doctor did not agree about what I should do -- the hospital admitted me, but my doctor said they should have waited. Based on April 2016 birthing experience

• Review submitted via the 2016 Birth Survey

  October 2016

  Recommend? Recommend Review: I was ready to push when I got to the hospital so triage took less than 5 minutes. The nurse was great during the delivery and since we were in the birthing center she stayed with us until the 7am shift change. I was the only mother admitted to the birthing center that night so it was a 1:1 nurse to patient ratio. There was also a nursing assistant with her. The admitting process was convoluted since there was no time for paperwork before my delivery. They issued wristbands sometime during the night and we completed the paperwork the next morning. ('Would you like to be an organ donor?' --Uh, wtf are you going to do to me prior to discharge?!?). The ambiance and decor is nothing special, but it was clean enough. The in-room shower/tub had no door and the clamp to hold up the showerhead didn't work so my husband had to hold it for me. It made for a very cold shower since I was exposed to the entire room! Advice: My strategy for getting in to the birthing center was to show up as late as possible to reduce the chances of interventions. Thankfully labor proceeded with no surprises. Member notes about insurance: One lump sum charge to my insurance from the hospital and one charge from the midwives. I believe there was also one charge from the pediatrician that went to my husband's insurance (baby went on his insurance plan). No other hiccups from the delivery. Based on a February 2016 birthing experience

• Review submitted via the 2016 Birth Survey

  October 2016

  Recommend? Recommend Review: Excellent experience but triage took too long (I was in very active labor so 20 minutes of waiting around felt like an eternity.) lovely staff with really nice attentive nurses. Private rooms are excellent (I got one with both deliveries 3 years apart) and the food is surprisingly tasty. Based on a January 2016 birthing experience

• Review submitted via 2015 Birth Survey

  February 2016

  The nurses were fantastic and so helpful. We had no idea how to care for a baby and they allayed all our fears and answered all our questions. Recommend? Highly recommend Insurance: The bills are just arriving but they are all in order. Based on a 2015 birth.

• Review submitted via 2015 Birth Survey

  February 2016

  Great nursing staff. We arrived at triage at 3 am and were sent through to a private room at the birthing center immediately. Delivered our daughter naturally, Paz, shortly after. Had a few minor complications during the delivery, and the nursing staff very kindly allowed us to stay an extra night in the birthing center room. The rooms are small, but very comfortable. Bed is large enough for a couple and a baby. :) Nursing staff was amazing. Very supportive and there in a second if I needed them. Highly recommend None, so far. Based on a 2015 birth.

• Review submitted via 2015 Birth Survey

  February 2016

  The birthing center is awesome! Big, comfortable, private room. We were the only people there so we got so much attention. The tub was already full and waiting for me when we got there. The nurses are amazing and so helpful. My only complaint is that triage at the hospital is horrible, I was there forever, went through transition there with just my husband, and my doula wasn't allowed in. It was like they forgot me and the bed was super uncomfortable. Once we got to the birthing center though, everything was great. Recommend? Highly recommend Insurance: Yes and I haven't had to do anything. Based on a 2015 birth.

• Review submitted via 2015 Birth Survey

  February 2016

  Review: I had a private room (gave birth to twins) and it was worth every penny. We had a pleasant experience following my c-section and the delivery nurses were great. My only complaint was an intake nurse who was very insensitive concerning my prior sexual assault, which was totally irrelevant to my delivery. Recommend? Recommend Insurance: No issues. Based on a August 2015 birth.

• Review submitted via 2015 Birth Survey

  February 2016

  Review: I didn't get to the birth center at Mt. Sinai Roosevelt until late in my labor, so didn't get to take full advantage of it. Still, I had a great experience of the room and care there. Recommend? Highly recommend Insurance: Yes. Based on a October 2015 birth.

• Review submitted via 2015 Birth Survey

  February 2016

  Review: I delivered in L&D and I had a good experience. My L&D nurse was totally incredible - I loved her. The nurses in my postpartum room were hit or miss, some were great, others were mediocre. But generally a very supportive environment. Great support by a lactation consultant who was available on call. I mean it's a hospital, so it.. Feels like a hospital. But all in all was a good experience, with the notable exception of triage in L&D. What a mess! Horribly disorganized and the people at the desk were rude. But just know that once you get passed that zoo, it gets better. Recommend? Recommend Insurance: Haven't had any issues Based on a November 2015 birth.

• Review submitted via 2015 Birth Survey

  February 2016

  We went to St Lukes because I liked my ob/gyn and didn't want to switch doctors. I also delivered my first child there but the two experiences were radically different. With the second baby, I was lucky enough to have a room to myself even though we didn't request a private room. The baby stayed with me most of the time, and the nurses were non-obtrusive, checking on me and the baby when we were awake, combining checks rather than adhering strictly to the clock. When I needed to take the baby to the nursery, it was easy. This time around felt like a more coordinated and patient-centered experience than the one I had with my first child. I went to a breastfeeding class with a lactation consultant, which I don't remember the hospital having previously. The only negative for me was that I had a very fast labor with both kids, and the triage staff didn't do me any favors either time. I suppose they're following protocol and it would be the same just about anywhere, but when a woman is fully dilated, there is no point in asking for a urine sample. It's just not gonna happen! Recommend Yes, it took our insurance. No problems there. Based on a May 2015 birth.

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Lamaze Member Review: We had Harriet Barry as our Lamaze instructor. She was absolutely phenomenal and most importantly taught us the philosophy of how to approach childbirth and be an advocate for yourself during this process. Breathing exercises and dealing with labor pain were also very well covered. We were well prepared to deal with the difficult decisions that came up during labor and even though nothing goes as planned, we ended up getting the outcome that mattered the most - avoiding a Cesarean delivery. (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey) Insurance details: Not covered

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  St. Lukes/Roosevelt Member Review: The L&D experience was crazy frustrating, but that was mostly because I was induced and had to be continuously monitored, which I believe led directly to my getting a c-section. I was told this doctor or that nurse would be right in, and they would be there two hours later. I had a horrible resident who was 10 years younger than me and extremely condescending. But the nurses were lovely. The postpartum nursing staff was lovely. The nurses are lactation specialists and really helpful those first few days of trying to get the baby to latch. The only thing is that you have to be on point with requesting your meds. They won't bring them to you automatically, even though they write down exactly when you are supposed to get your next dose on a white board in your room that just stares at you and taunts you while you call the nurses' station in pain. Do you recommend? Recommend Insurance details: Yes, and we had no problems (knock wood that we don't get some crazy leftover bill now...) (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: I had hopes that I would be able to deliver exactly the way I wanted, but I wasn't super strict about it. I wanted the birthing center but it was full and I wasn't dilated enough, so I was either going to hobble around 10th Ave and try my luck again in a few hours (it was 10 pm when I went in), or I was going to nest on the normal L&D floor. I opted for the latter, knowing that my doctor would comply to natural wishes regardless of the floor I'm on. I didn't bring the ball, I just got comfortable and let my bump get intermittently monitored. My cervix wasn't complying to my uterus' signals and I ended up caving to an epidural after 24 hours. I screamed a lot during those 24 hours. I puked from pain a few times. I couldn't even keep water down, and was getting dehydrated fast. So once the IV was in to treat the dehydration, it was annoying on top of painful, and most of the nurses were not sympathetic. I walked down the L&D hall and looked at the pictures of kids from around the world. There is one of a mom holding a baby over a curbside. My doula has seen this hallway and passed this picture a thousand times, but I stopped at first pass and saw a curry-colored poop dangling out of the kid's bottom. The hold was a pooping-baby hold, but both the mom and the kid were camera conscious and smiling. It made me laugh, and kept my my mind off the pain for a few seconds. The 20 min post birth was the scariest part for me. Lots of blood, stitches and jitters kept me from holding my new babe, and in the awe and tumult of his arrival, we forgot that daddy was to cut the umbilical cord, not the doc. The post partem room's intercom wasn't working and the poor lady recovering from a c-section was trying to call out for more medication and wasn't getting any response. There was one good nurse out of a dozen that kept breezing by, so I got to know her schedule really well and only wanted my baby bathed by her. Lactation consultants did keep coming by but weren't much help. I really just wanted out of there, and left as soon as I could, which was about 24 hours after delivery. Do you recommend? Recommend Be ready that only every 5th nurse will actually be pleasant. Insurance details: Yes, no issues with having United Heathcare.

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: Overall, my experience with St. Luke's was good. I had originally wanted to give birth in the birthing center but I risked out and ended up in L&D. The nurses were nice and helpful both in L&D and in recovery. The rooms were fine but nothing special. I did make use of the tub and was very thankful they had one in every room. The food was pretty crummy so my husband brought in food for most meals. The nurses did not help me as much with breastfeeding as I had been led to believe they would. That being said, we did not have any significant issues with breastfeeding, so I was not very proactive with requesting help. Do you recommend? Recommend Insurance details: I had no problems with their insurance billing processes/timeliness (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  St. Lukes Roosevelt Member Review: Overall, my experience in Labor & Delivery was positive. One of my few complaints was that they did not have success getting the monitor to record my contractions and therefore did not accurately assess how far along I was in the labor process. They did make several attempts to correct this, but unfortunately were not success and the medical team seemed to be taken off guard by how quickly I progressed. Do you recommend? Recommend Labor and Delivery was great, but the Maternity Ward left a lot to be desired. After giving birth, I requested a meal and was told that it was "past dinner time" and that they did not have any food for me. Several times they were delayed in responding to my simple requests. The biggest challenge came from the lack of a lactation consultant and nurses who provided assistance were aggressive and unhelpful when it came to breast feeding support. Insurance details: No issues with insurance. (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: We had an amazing post-partum experience in a private room and thought it was worth every penny. It was essentially a crash course on how to handle a newborn with a 24-hour nursing staff who was available to demonstrate how to do things and answer any questions related to Mom's recovery or the newborn. I don't see it doing it any other way. The nurses in the labor section were also excellent and gave us enough space to proceed with labor and leave us alone when we preferred it. Do you recommend? Highly recommend Make sure that no first year residents try to give you a hep lock. I had bruises for 1+ week after failed attempts to find a vein and the resident ended up calling regular nursing staff for help. No such complaints with the regular nurses. Insurance details: No issues (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: As indicated I had a c-section and both of my twins since preemies, were taken care of in the NICU. While the rooms are not state of the art, the human factor made the difference. Absolutely all the nurses, day and night, were extremely competent, helpful (explaining and training a new mom like me tirelessly) and also showed a lot of empathy. I felt well cared for. Do you recommend? Highly recommend Insurance details: Ensure what your plan covers. While all hospital bills were covered without issues and the NICU is in network, the doctors in the NICU are not, thus prepare to fight and negotiate bills for that part. My insurance United Healthcare, highest plan available. (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: I got mixed reviews of St Lukes - so I did research and found out all their policies - eg. husbands cant stay over if you share a room etc. I had a great experience with nurses and staff. No surprises other than a very smooth experience. Do you recommend? Highly recommend Insurance details: Yep. Easy. (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: Do you recommend? Highly recommend Insurance details: (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: The L&D nurses are great. Really wonderful. I wouldn't have hired a doula if I'd known how great they would be. Even though I wanted a totally natural birth, I endd up on pitocin and I really loved some of the interventions that the natural birth community tends to look down upon (e.g. continuous monitoring -- it was so reassuring to see my baby's heartbeat ticking away, and I loved that my husband could anticipate when a contraction was coming without my having to tell him.) I also had the epidural even though I'd hoped not to, and the anesthesiologists were really quick, and really good. The epidural, in my case, was enough to take the edge off, but I could definitely still feel major pressure during the contractions and all through pushing. It did not allow me to sleep at all (which is what I wanted, even though I got it only 4 hrs into labor (at 7cm, but I was on pitocin), and my total labor & delivery was only 7hrs!). I kept on saying, "I can still feel the pain!" They would say, "you can feel the pressure, but not the pain!" I was like, "the pressure IS the pain, idiots!" But it did take things down a couple notches for sure, in retrospect. And it made pushing just bearable. So if you care/if it would help to know, I think understanding what kind of epidural you'll be given based on the circumstances (how far dilated, etc) is something I would have liked to have known, so I would have had appropriate expectations. But I also think my midwife made the right call given that I delivered 3 hrs later, even though I desperately wanted something stronger that would have let me sleep even 1hr. The nurses in the maternity ward will want to take the baby to wash him, take his temp/vitals every 8 hours or whatever. I would highly, highly recommend that you or your partner go with them when they do that. They'll say something like, "It'll only take a minute!" and they will seem really authoritative and pushy and put out that you want to go with, and it will be tempting b/c everyone will be so tired, but when you go with them to the nursery, you can see what they do with the unaccompanied babies. They line them up in their bassinets and attend to them when they attend to them -- even if they are crying/screaming, whatever. When you are there with the baby they feel pressure to do what you came to do right away, and it all gets done more quickly AND you are sure your baby isn't screaming in a bassinet against a wall without you there. At least if your baby is screaming you will be there with him to comfort him! They will act like you're high maintenance, because it makes their jobs a little bit more tricky, but I was so glad that even the 2nd night, when we didn't pay for a private room and my husband had to go home in the evening, that I got up in the middle of the night and went with them to the nursery, even though I was so so so tired. The being said, if you can afford a private room, do it, even just for the first night. You will be exhausted and want your own space to revel in your new little person. Plus the food is WAY better, and no one feels like going out for take out when you have a brand new baby. Do you recommend? Recommend Once you deliver the baby and are moved to the maternity wing, they are much less hands-on, especially if you keep your baby with you the whole time. They really expect you to do everything, which I guess is how it is once you get home! That was a bit of a shock after how hands-on everyone is in the L&D room. For instance, in the L&D room, they come to check on your bleeding and help you change your underwear and fashion this makeshift pad out of chux pads which is infinitely more comfortable than the big bulky pads they have you use later, but when you move to the maternity room, they don't do that for you at all. There are supplies in a basket by the table (but no chux pads!), and you're expected to do all that yourself. Speaking of chux pads, if you're going to take home a bunch of hospital supplies (what your partner should be tasked with), you need to take the chux pads from the L&D room before going to recovery -- they don't stock them on the maternity ward! I discovered this too late; don't make the same mistake I did! Insurance details: Bills are complicated, billing staff via phone is very courteous and helpful in helping you understand them. (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: My birth experience was great. The delivery rooms are nice, the labor/delivery nurses are AMAZING. The post-birth nurses run hot and cold. I definitely had some fantastic ones, but also some that weren't very attentive. The lactation consultant was very nice, but ultimately not very helpful--but that could have been because of my specific problems. I also liked the pediatrician assigned to my baby. I had one awful experience with a roommate, but the nurses worked hard to find me a new room and I was moved within a few hours. They made it very easy. Do you recommend? Recommend Ask for what you need. Don't be shy! Bring snacks or send your partner out for food. The food was okay, but if you are hungry in between there isn't really anything to be had. Greek Kitchen across the street--a MUST!! Insurance details: This hospital takes many types of insurance, as most hospitals to. The only insurance problem we had was in the NICU. We were assigned a doctor who turned out to not accept our insurance (we didn't know at the time since when you are in the NICU you aren't interviewing the doctors) and ended up having to pay out of pocket. (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: Roosevelt Hospital was great with all pre-labor appointment. I had monthly ultasounds due to a fibroid and they were easy with appointments and short waits. Once I was in labor, my first labor and delivery nurse was slightly overbearing. I was on pitocin and she made me remain bed ridden (not even allowed to go to the bathroom). I think this was overboard and I should have asked more questions. My second labor and delivery nurse was better but I had an epidural already so this wasn't an issue. My unscheduled C-section went flawlessly. I did not have a private post partum room since they were $900/night. My roommates were fine. The post partem nurses were over worked and some of them were down right mean. In the middle of the night, I would have to ring my bell many many times to get attention. This is a scary situation when it's your first baby, you're bedridden because of a C-section, and you don't know what to do with your baby. The nurses were good lactation consultants. Do you recommend? Recommend with reservations Bring a doula or ask more questions, ask for a doctor if you're not liking your nurse. Insurance details: My experience with filing claims was fine. (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: I delivered my second child at the Roosevelt Birthing Center in September 2014. It was a smooth, wonderful experience! It was incredible to be able to give birth in a way that felt entirely natural (big contrast from my first delivery). I used Midwifery of Manhattan - and all the women there were kind, attentive and very supportive. The nurse at the Birthing Center was great too. Could not recommend this facility more. Very happy! Do you recommend? Highly recommend Guidelines to be able to get into the Birthing Center for delivery are strict, but I've heard the regular L&D floor is great too. All the best. Insurance details: I believe Midwifery of Manhattan takes Cigna, and the hospital takes most insurances. I had no problems, just needed to pay the deductibles. (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: Overall my experience at Mount SInai-Roosevelt was fine but - as a first time mother - I have nothing to compare it to. The L+D nurses were all fantastic, attentive, and kind, but communication was not always the best among the staff. I would often answer the same questions three times, have my response scribbled on a scrap of paper, and then be asked the same questions by another person ten minutes later. The facilities were neat and clean, the ambiance was hospital standard. Food was AWFUL. Post-birth nursing care was generally slow to respond and post-birth lactation support was minimal. I told the nursing staff I was having difficulty breastfeeding but it was a physician's assistant witnessing my struggle who finally taught me how to breastfeed properly. Do you recommend? Recommend with reservations Have an advocate, someone who can speak FOR you as you might lack the physical/mental/emotional strength to get what you need/want from the nursing staff. I wasn't a particularly high-maintenance patient but often felt like my concerns (re: breastfeeding, etc.) were not being heard or heeded. Insurance details: Accepted my United HealthCare Choice Plus insurance. (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: Nurses are fantastic and attending docs if you don't get your own were excellent. Care for mom and baby is perfect balance - there if you need help esp for first time mom but also can leave you alone if you want privacy. They know sleeping is important but they will monitor you don't sleep with baby. Rooms are fine - get a window bed if you share (more privacy). Labor and delivery rooms are spacious enough and the bathroom is equipped to help labor (birthing ball, big shower). Slightly dated decor but better than other hospitals we toured. The privacy and security and staff were better than all others so we just had that good vibe Do you recommend? Highly recommend Do a tour and figure out route in case of emergency, road construction etc. Roads were closed when baby was crowning so we rushed to ER entrance where accessing elevators to L&D was faster Insurance details: Yes and no issues at all, united healthcare (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: The L&D nurses - all of them - were awesome. Even the anesthesiologist, who was a jerk, was good at his job. I had a great experience with the birth itself. Unfortunately, the postpartum nurses were awful. The first nurse I saw gave me attitude because she found out we didn’t give the baby a bath after delivery. She told me I should have told her because she would have used gloves to handle the baby. That is totally ridiculous, how should I know I should have told her that? It’s not my job to tell her when to wear gloves. Another time when I went into feed Jupiter when he was under the lights for jaundice, a nurse told me how he had been hysterically crying for me, like I should have come sooner. How was I supposed to know to come sooner when he was in the nursery? This was actually indicative of the breastfeeding problems I wasn’t really aware we were having. I got inconsistent help with breastfeeding - I felt like no one noticed how much Jupiter (my son) and I were struggling. Also, Jupiter was jaundiced and they didn’t notice it right away. It was a really bad combination of factors for him and I felt like I didn’t get any real help until I went to the pediatrician the day after I got home. He’s the one that realized Jupiter wasn’t breastfeeding. He had me start pumping, put Jupiter on formula until my milk came in to get rid of the jaundice and had me see a lactation consultant. Turns out that Jupiter was tongue-tied; once we got that corrected, we were able to breastfeed. Here’s my advice: - If everything goes well, you can ask for an early discharge. If you want one, ask early, so they can clear you. - If you are questioning what the hospital pediatricians are saying, call your home pediatrician. I felt so much better having a second opinion. - Bringing your own meds isn’t a bad idea! (stool softener, advil) - Have a few lactation consultants numbers on hand. I didn’t anticipate how difficult it would be coordinate with our schedules. They wanted to see me when my milk came in, which is variable (mine came in late on the 4th day). Then one of them was sick and had to cancel and a few of them were full or unavailable (it was the the weekend). It’s hard, because you need to see someone right away if you’re having trouble. Do you recommend? Recommend with reservations Pay for a private room - having a roommate is awful and my husband had to get a hotel. Insurance details: No issues. Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: The nurses were wonderful. We loved our triage nurse. The delivery nurses were all great. Recovery nurses are very knowledgable about breastfeeding. Standard practice here is the baby stays in your room. Do you recommend? Highly recommend Insurance details: Insurance was not a problem for us. (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Based on a 2014 Birthing Experience

  February 2015

  Member Review: Amazing experience. I really wanted to be in the Birthing Center and somehow (I credit the midwives) made it in! The nurses were wonderful. They were supportive and helpful with breast feeding and had a good sense of humor. Do you recommend? Highly recommend Be open that you might not get in. Insurance details: yes. Simple. (Review submitted via the 2014 Birthing Survey)

• Private room vs shared room in the hospital after birth

  February 2013

  I was at St Luke's Roosevelt. When I gave birth to my February daughter, I had to wait in the hall for a bit to get even a shared room. No private rooms were available. The mother I was bunking with wanted to sleep and wasn't nursing, so her baby was in the nursery. In my attempt to be considerate, I was changing diapers and nursing in the dark and utterly uncomfortable. So, if possible, you might want to ask for a roommate with a similar profile. For my son, we were the only family in the birthing center. It was nice! A private room is great--but don't get your heart set on it.

• Private room vs shared room in the hospital after birth

  February 2013

  St. Luke's private rooms are so expensive I thought I could hack it in a shared room - and then my roommate moved in, and I realized it wasn't going to work. Loud, cursing visitors, blaring tv -- in other words not a restful intro to new parenthood. I switched to the private room and it was great. The food, the nurses and having my husband get to sleep over, all made the huge price tag seem worth it. And was able to move into the regular rooms the next night, but thanks to the nice nurse from the first night, got setup in one of the rooms that didn't have anyone else admitted to them and it was just as nice as the expensive room. So a lot of it is just luck (or whether it's a full moon or something?)

• Private room vs shared room in the hospital after birth

  February 2013

  I have given birth at St. Luke's twice, and went private room both times. I've heard far too few positive stories of shared rooms and far, far, far too many horror stories - or even stories of discontent - to have entertained the idea of sharing. After birth, we're all sore, tired, freaked out, and have visitors... none of which is conducive to the sanity of our roommate (and vice-versa). If you are able to swing a private room, I can't recommend it enough.

• Private room vs shared room in the hospital after birth

  February 2013

  I gave birth at St Lukes and moved to a shared room. It was fine in the beginning until my room-mate cell phone did not stop ringing and she was on the phone pretty much the whole time I was there. I asked her politely to put her phone on vibrate but it was ignored. I complained to one of the nurses but she told me "there is nothing they can do about it". So, it left me no choice but to moved to a private room to get a good rest. Private room in St Lukes is amazing. The room was big with couch and extra bed. The food was excellent (they have a whole menu from breakfast to dinner and a refrigerator full of sodas and waters). The nurses are more attentive (in my opinion) and most of all, my husband was able to stay with me the whole time while I was resting. Yes, it was expensive but it was worth the stay.

• Feedback of St. Luke's Roosevelt childbirth class, please!

  January 2013

  I second [below]'s review and we were in the same class! Loved Janet Bogardus. Highly recommend this class. Money very well spent.

• Feedback of St. Luke's Roosevelt childbirth class, please!

  January 2013

  We just did the weekend intensive that they offer and our teacher was Olga and she was great! They cover a lot in the 2 days and it's also great to be there if you are delivering there to get a feel for the place and a tour as a part of the class. I actually liked getting everything over the 2 day period (especially good if you are close to your due date I think) because you don't have a chance to forget from class to class it really allows you to focus.

• Feedback of St. Luke's Roosevelt childbirth class, please!

  January 2013

  I had a great experience with the childbirth class at St. Luke's Roosevelt, which is also where I gave birth. Janet Bogardus was our teacher for both the initial lamaze class with our 1st child and a refresher class for our second child. I really liked how the class took a practical approach -- unless you have a scheduled c-section, you never know how the birth will actually pan out -- so it covered everything from breathing techniques for natural pain relief to epidurals to inductions to c-sections.

• Re: Need advice please on hospital and midwife

  January 2013

  This fall, we had our second child at SLR in the birth center and couldn't have had a better experience. Our group of midwives were excellent throughout pregnancy, birth and post partum. The nurses we had were also excellent. If you really want a natural birth, that is a wonderful setting and you can't get better care and support than we received with our midwives

• highly recommend

  January 2013

  I highly recommend the birthing center at st Luke's Roosevelt hospital. It meets all of your needs. The birthing center is one floor below regular labor and delivery so you can easily be transferred to l&d if you want an epidural etc. It is in manhattan (59th st) but I live in Brooklyn and delivered my first there (tried for birthing center but ended up in regular l&d which was still a positive experience). I'm going for birthing center with #2 due in April! My doctor is dr Amy Huang: (212) 603-4173 I like almost all the drs in her practice too

• highly recommend

  January 2013

  I highly recommend the birthing center at st Luke's Roosevelt hospital. It meets all of your needs. The birthing center is one floor below regular labor and delivery so you can easily be transferred to l&d if you want an epidural etc. It is in manhattan (59th st) but I live in Brooklyn and delivered my first there (tried for birthing center but ended up in regular l&d which was still a positive experience). I'm going for birthing center with #2 due in April! My doctor is dr Amy Huang: (212) 603-4173 I like almost all the drs in her practice too

• Birth Survey 2012

  May 2012

  REVIEW: I didn't have a great experience. I didn't like the delivery nurses, they couldn't find a vein to put an IV in so I could have an epidural and there was no anesthesiologist available so I ended up laboring without pain meds when I had asked for them on numerous, pain filled occasions. I also ended up having an emergency c-section and the recovery ward, before I went to a room, wasn't great. I had to ask NUMEROUS times for a morphine drip because the spinal block that I had from my section was wearing off. Also, Roosevelt has no lactation consultant, which is weird given that they have a birthing center, and the nurses really did nothing to teach me how to nurse. INSURANCE ISSUES: Roosevelt took my hospital insurance, which was BCBS. One thing I will say is that I paid less than $1,000 out of pocket for my delivery, which I've heard is somewhat unusual. Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: I had hoped to give birth in the Birthing Center, but they had not staffed it on the night I arrived (yes, apparently they can do that if they are short-staffed in Labor and Delivery). Labor and Delivery was so full that I waited in the hall for two hours waiting to get into triage, and then was in triage for two hours waiting for a room. Not fun. I thought the nurses in Labor and Delivery were wonderful, which I think is the major concern at a hospital when you are giving birth (since presumably you can find a good doctor in most places). The nurse who was there for the actual birth was as helpful as anyone. The post-partum nurses were also lovely and helpful. And my baby was finally delivered by a medical resident with the attending doctor. She was very nice and very good. INSURANCE ISSUES: I had Oxford PPO at the time, and my birth was covered as part of my pregnancy. I ended up receiving a check for $750 and then owed $750; I'm not sure why it worked that way. I did own some additional money, around $250, on a separate bill for pediatric testing. Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: I had hoped to give birth in the Birthing Center, but they had not staffed it on the night I arrived (yes, apparently they can do that if they are short-staffed in Labor and Delivery). Labor and Delivery was so full that I waited in the hall for two hours waiting to get into triage, and then was in triage for two hours waiting for a room. Not fun. I thought the nurses in Labor and Delivery were wonderful, which I think is the major concern at a hospital when you are giving birth (since presumably you can find a good doctor in most places). The nurse who was there for the actual birth was as helpful as anyone. The post-partum nurses were also lovely and helpful. And my baby was finally delivered by a medical resident with the attending doctor. She was very nice and very good. INSURANCE ISSUES: I had Oxford PPO at the time, and my birth was covered as part of my pregnancy. I ended up receiving a check for $750 and then owed $750; I'm not sure why it worked that way. I did own some additional money, around $250, on a separate bill for pediatric testing. Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: I had hoped to give birth in the Birthing Center, but they had not staffed it on the night I arrived (yes, apparently they can do that if they are short-staffed in Labor and Delivery). Labor and Delivery was so full that I waited in the hall for two hours waiting to get into triage, and then was in triage for two hours waiting for a room. Not fun. I thought the nurses in Labor and Delivery were wonderful, which I think is the major concern at a hospital when you are giving birth (since presumably you can find a good doctor in most places). The nurse who was there for the actual birth was as helpful as anyone. The post-partum nurses were also lovely and helpful. And my baby was finally delivered by a medical resident with the attending doctor. She was very nice and very good. INSURANCE ISSUES: I had Oxford PPO at the time, and my birth was covered as part of my pregnancy. I ended up receiving a check for $750 and then owed $750; I'm not sure why it worked that way. I did own some additional money, around $250, on a separate bill for pediatric testing. Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: Both of my boys were born at Roosevelt's Birthing Center in 2008 and 2011. I have nothing but positive things to say about both experiences. It is a wonderful, calming atmosphere. The nurses are caring, attentive, and there for you at all times as there is one nurse assigned to the Center for just three patients at all times. You are able to birth and recover in the same room, and you also have a much shorter hospital stay. The only downside is that you may then have to make a trip to your pediatrician the next day for the PKU, but worth it, in my opinion. INSURANCE ISSUES: I had experience with GHI and Oxford, and had no issues. Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: I had a really great experience with midwife Coralie MacQueen at the Birthing Center (St. Lukes). I cannot imagine delivering anywhere else. The staff was incredible -- especially the nurses. And they worked hard to accomodate me even though the Center was full when I arrived. I was able to wait in another room till one with a tub opened up. My only wish is that (if you wanted to) you could stay another night. INSURANCE ISSUES: Yes and everything was smooth Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: The nurses were wonderful and I feel like my lack of problems with breastfeeding was because of the good start they helped me with. INSURANCE ISSUES: Easy Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: St. Luke's Roosevelt Labor and Delivery treated us very well during our birth and postpartum care. The nurses were phenomenal both during labor and afterwards. The facilities were mostly comfortable, though L&D triage is not very nice. The nurses supported us after the birth with mostly good information and were present, kind, and very helpful at times going out of their way to help ensure our comfort during our stay. INSURANCE ISSUES: Oxford insurance, no problems. Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: Planned on the Birthing Center, but went a week late, so I risked out. Gave birth in a normal labor and delivery room. The rooms are cramped and hospital-y, but I labored at home until 7 cm, so it didn't much matter. Clean; efficient and helpful nurses. Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: I had intended to use the Birthing Center but alas ended up with a c-section. For the most part all of my experiences at Roosevelt were great. I loved the staff I encountered for all my ultrasound visits. The day of my c-section was a bit aggravating because they had lost my blood work and things were delayed but even with all that for the most part everyone was lovely. The post-partum nurses were amazing. It is a very pro-bonding and pro-breast feeding hospital so all the nurses encourage skin to skin and spend time helping you getting your baby to latch. The nurses are really incredible. INSURANCE ISSUES: I had Aetna and experience was fine. Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: I was in this hospital for a month prior to my C-section because of placenta previa. The nurses on the antepartum floor were all great. I had a private room for recovery, and my nurse, Gigi, was fantastic. I have nothing but good things to say about this place. With a complicated pregnancy that involved doctors talking about the necessity of my being near an OR so I could be "sectioned" at any time, I was so relieved I'd chosen this hospital. I was in the best possible hands. INSURANCE ISSUES: No problems with Blue Cross/Blue Shield. Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: SLR was fine. Some nurses were more helpful than others. Supposedly all the nurses were trained to support b'feeding. INSURANCE ISSUES: No issues Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: Great experience. INSURANCE ISSUES: Yes, no problems. Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: Nursing staff was AMAZING...easy to talk too about breastfeeding issues and calmed my nerves about formula vs breastfeeding, very open to all questions and very sensitive..I had an emergency c-section and feel that is couldn't have been EASIER b/c of their staff attentiveness INSURANCE ISSUES: yes, no problems here w/ insurance Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: Overall a very good experience. After being two weeks late i went in on appointment to get induced. Once in the room i was very happy with the staff and they kept it very private and the nurses were great. Took 3 hours to get checked in because women in labor had priority which makes sense but it did get tiresome. Post partum was mostly great. I was in a shared room and able to get the window side after my roommate after much badgering of the staff. Not the newest or fanciest looking place but i was very happy with the care and some of the nurses were spectacular INSURANCE ISSUES: yes. They were in network for the hospital (not our midwives) and we had no issues. I think we had to pay less then 100$ to St. Lukes Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: I had complications following birth and the staff at St Luke's took amazing care of me and my daughter. INSURANCE ISSUES: A dr was involved in an emergency surgery that didn't take my insurance which was annoying. I'm still trying to sort it out... Review Date: April 2012

• Birth Survey 2012

  April 2012

  REVIEW: I am a physician and am by the book. I know and worry about what can go wrong in a routine delivery, so for me a home or birthing center delivery was not an option. Good thing, because our little guy needed the NICU. I had a wonderful birth experience. The nurses were supportive. Not that helpful with lactation help once my son was born. He was in the ICU, and those were the only nurses who actually helped me. Post partum care otherwise was fine. I would definitely do the private room again INSURANCE ISSUES: Review Date: April 2012

• Private or Shared Room?

  March 2011

  I delivered at Roosevelt in November. We opted for the shared room because the private room was too expensive ($900+). I had the bed by the window which meant that I had to walk past my roommate and her family to get to the shared bathroom. This never actually posed any problems in my case but I can easily see how under different circumstances (a c-section for example) it could be really trying. If I had it to do over again I'd do the same thing because I cannot get past that price tag, but it's definitely a close call.

• Private or Shared Room?

  March 2011

  I delivered at Roosevelt in November. We opted for the shared room because the private room was too expensive ($900+). I had the bed by the window which meant that I had to walk past my roommate and her family to get to the shared bathroom. This never actually posed any problems in my case but I can easily see how under different circumstances (a c-section for example) it could be really trying. If I had it to do over again I'd do the same thing because I cannot get past that price tag, but it's definitely a close call.

• Private or Shared Room?

  March 2011

  The private room is I think $850 a night (in Oct 2010). If you can afford it I would recommend the splurge. We ended up having an emergency C-section, and we were very glad we got the private room although we ended up staying 3 nights instead of one night due to the unforeseen C-section. I got my much needed rest. My husband could stay and sleep in the room with me, and the food was like hotel room service where you order from a menu for all 3 meals. There is plenty of food for both me and my husband to enjoy. And visitors could come and go without feeling cramped into a very very small space. It was very special for us to have family and friends visit without feeling awkward. It was nice to be able to hold and play with baby walking around the room, enjoying the nice view of the city, and talk about anything we want without feeling as if we're disturbing others. We went to the hospital tour and the shared rooms are very small. There is only one chair for each bed, and barely any comfortable standing room. Husband and I thought that this is a very special moment for us and we don't splurge like this often...so we were willing to spend the money. A caveat is, though, even if you sign up for a private room (and can only do so when you are admitted), you might not end up getting one. So keep that in mind.

• Private or Shared Room?

  March 2011

  I delivered at Roosevelt in 2011 and I got a window bed. I didn't even really think about upgrading to a private room because I've heard the rooms are almost $1000/night. Is that true? Anyway, I got so lucky because I stayed 2 nights and never once did they bring in a roommate. SO I got a private room for free! The food wasn't great but my partner brought me meals for the 2 days I was there, which was better than any hospital food I could imagine anyway.... (Feb 2011)

• Price of a private room?

  March 2011

  I delivered last June, I think the price was up to $800/night. We were told they keep on hiking it up in hopes to drive the demand down. We also did the tour - twice, once early on, and another one as part of the class we took at the hospital. I found the tour through the class more informative and useful(but it could be also due to the fact that it was much closer to my due date), than the one we did earlier. I didn't have the experience of a shared room, but I must say, I really loved the comfort of the private room, the awesome menu, and the fact that my husband was allowed to stay overnight (although he will tell you it was the most uncomfortable night of sleep he's ever gotten).

• Private or Shared Room?

  March 2011

  I didn't bother with a private room - it seemed pricey to me and I don't regret having a shared room. As it turned out, a private room would have been lost on me since I had a spinal headache for a day post-partum and wouldn't have been comfortable staying at the Ritz since I could not sit up or stand up without getting a terrible headache, and had to get a spinal patch, and our son was in the NICU for a few days and couldn't come to my room anyway. That said, my roommate was the kind of roommate that would have led a lot of people to upgrade to a private room - she was in early labor, six months pregnant with twins and on bedrest on doctor's orders, with a one or two year old at home, and wouldn't stay still even in the hospital and had a lot of visitors who were rowdy and overall while she was nice it was not a fun experience having her as a roommate, and she gave birth within a few days anyway (bedrest didn't do the trick); I saw her very premature babies in the NICU before leaving, and it was upsetting and I don't know how they fared. So once in awhile you might get a roommate who isn't as considerate as they might be. I'd still skip the private room if I were doing it again.

• Private or Shared Room?

  March 2011

  I loved my roommate in the shared room at St. Luke's, and found the whole experience pleasant. I too had the window side. I remember eating every bit of the hospital food and then some take-out lasagna--giving birth made me ravenous. If I'd had a c-section I might have gone for the private room, but as it was I was happy to have the extra $1200 to use on essentials.

• Private or Shared Room?

  March 2011

  I too splurged on the private room which is wonderful, not least of which is the incredible food. However it took me all day to get in so I had the experience of a shared room as well. Totally agree to get the window side... And ask to order from the special private room dining menu. The regular hospital food is terrible, and as you probably remember, the other menu costs maybe $20 or less per meal and has things like lamb chops, polenta, great salads, desserts. 2 meals fed 4 adults!

• Private or Shared Room?

  March 2011

  I shared a postpartum room at Roosevelt last November, when I delivered my first baby. I had the bed by the window and the view was great. However, the biggest issue for me was trying to sleep at night. The woman sharing the room with me had had a C-Section and required frequent care by the nurses, which would come in at night, turn on the lights and make enough noise that it was impossible to sleep. Also, there is very little space for visitors. More than two people and there is no space to move at all. Luckily there was a sitting room to entertain visitors right across the hallway from where my room was.

• Private or Shared Room?

  March 2011

  I shared a room in Roosevelt but didn't last all day because my roommate was inconsiderate. After 3 hours labor, I was exhausted and all I want was to sleep. But my roommate phone was on the ringer and talked really loud. She also have a lot of male visitors and since I didn't have the window side, they all pass by my bed and sometimes, her visitor would pull the curtain exposing me while breastfeeding. Long story short, my husband moved me to a private room. I have to say if you an afford it, go for Private room. Its worth it. As you already experienced it, you will get a great room, bathroom and made to order meals (you actually get a menu to pick appetizer, entree and desert, plus unlimited supply of OJ, soda and bottled water). And you can definitely rest.

• Private or Shared Room?

  March 2011

  My advice: Splurge on the private room, if you can swing it. I was in a private room at Roosevelt the first night after I delivered my daughter, then decided to save $$$ and go for the shared one the 2nd night. While I hadn't thought the private room was all that great when I was there--it was HEAVEN compared to the cramped, windowless space I was moved to. To make matters worse, my roommate's baby screamed all night, and it was just a miserable experience. If I had to do it again, I would go private both nights.

• Private or Shared Room?

  March 2011

  I second that! get the window side! request it or have your partner do so after the delivery. I loved my roommate, too, which made the stay even better. You will be by the air conditioner, too, which is under the window-so you are in control (hah). The walk to the bathroom is nothing-the rooms are not huge. We wanted a private room and none were available-and now I realize that it probably wouldn't have been worth the expense. However, if you have issues with your roommate, promptly request to be moved. Chances are you won't.

• Private or Shared Room?

  March 2011

  I Shared a room both times I delivered at Roosevelt. There were no private rooms available the first night so I ended up in a share. My bed was by a big window with a beautiful view. When a room opened up the next day I didn't care enough to switch and I thought the $ was ridiculous for a pretty plain hospital room. However, the way the shared rooms are partitioned is meaningful. One bed is by the window (small area) the other bed is in a larger area (by the door and the bathroom) partitioned by a heavy curtain. My area was full of sunlight with pretty city views while my neighbor was in a dim windowless area. The only pro to the bed away from the window was proximity to the bathroom. My advice to anyone sharing a room at Roosevelt is to get the window side bed! For my second baby, I was put in a bed away from the window and I made my husband stake out a window bed for me and insist that I be moved.

• (no subject)

  December 2010

  I delivered there in 2008 and again just this past September (regular deliveries, not c-section). Both births were great experiences. I did not get a private room, but certainly can understand how that would make the rest and recovery period more tranquil. Overall, I really liked all staff I encountered. Some nurses and nurse assistants were better than others, but I think you'll find that is the case in most hospitals. In my most recent delivery and recovery, everyone was so kind and supportive, and many went the 'extra mile' to ensure the baby was well taken care of and I was comfortable. I suggest asking a few different nurses for help with breastfeeding-- they all emphasize different tips/techniques and you can find one whose style/manor you like.

• (no subject)

  December 2010

  I delivered my twins at St Luke's Roosevelt. I absolutely loved the L&D experience. I did have to deliver in the OR (typical for a twin delivery). But my doctors were wonderful for the whole 42 hours of labor. I never felt rushed or pressured to get a c-section. They did everything according to my birth plan. They even allowed both my hubby and doula in the OR, even though I was told only 1 person was allowed in. On the flip side, I hated their post partum department. I shared a room. My twins were delivered at 7:30 pm so by the time I got into my room, there was just enough time for my husband to make sure I was comfortable, and then they made him leave. At which point, they helped me for a little bit and after that, it took forever for any nurses to come help me. I got no help until the very last day I was there as far as lactation consultants go. On my last day, probably the last half of it, I wound up with super-nurse. She was awesome. It's just too bad the rest of them couldn't follow her example. In hindsight, I would have just paid the extra money to have a private room. I don't care how expensive it is. It would've been worth it. But the birthing experience was the most important part anyway. So all in all, good experience.

• (no subject)

  December 2010

  I delivered my twins at St. Lukes Roosevelt and it was awesome!!! All of the doctors, nurses and aides were fabulous. I did take the private room as soon as it became available -- expensive but truly worth it. The first night (I had an emergency c) the private room was not available and it was about 6pm. Everyone was very supportive of breastfeeding and helpful for new parents.

• (no subject)

  January 2010

  I was very disappointed in the care I received at St Lukes. I had enjoyed my tour and classes I took there but the delivery could have been handled much better. I was on the regular L&D floor. They lost my preregistration and were VERY slow to process me, even though I was already in transition when I arrived. By the time they (rudely) processed me and got me to a room I was already over 9 cm. Then the nurse assigned to me complained that she was getting the 9cm patient (shift change was coming). Then they couldn't find a birthing bar, finally brought something in that didn't fit. The night nurses were also unhelpful and largely hard to find. (Recommended 1/10)