When you’re expecting, you’re evaluating all your choices to decide how you would like to bring your child into the world. We’re here to make it as rewarding, joyful and safe as possible. In addition to the wide variety of options for prenatal care we offer, we provide additional support for special situations.

Low c-section rates

At OHSU, we believe surgical births should be the exception, not the expectation. During the last weeks of a pregnancy, crucial lung, liver, kidney and brain developments in the fetus occur. To ensure maternal and fetal health, OHSU is committed to reducing the number of elective, non-medically necessary C-sections prior to 39 weeks.

Vaginal birth after cesarean section (VBAC)

OHSU is one of the few providers in Oregon who perform VBAC, and we have the highest success rate in the country: about 80 percent of the women who try to give birth vaginally after a cesarean with us achieve their goal. In addition, we can offer VBAC to women who have had more than two C-sections.

Water birth

Many women in labor find that being in water helps promote relaxation and pain relief. All of our Labor and Delivery rooms also have bathtubs that women can use during their labor experience. For 15 years, OHSU certified nurse-midwives have offered waterbirth as an option. Women who choose waterbirth may give birth (not just labor) in a free-standing heated pool within the hospital.

Group prenatal care option

The Group Prenatal Care option with the OHSU nurse-midwives combines prenatal care with a discussion and support group. The goals of this care model are to increase patient satisfaction with prenatal care, increase pregnancy knowledge and reduce the need for medical interventions needed during pregnancy and birth. Many patients are choosing this option because of the increased connectivity with other couples and the confidence gained by having a built-in support group throughout their pregnancies.

Ranked among the nation's best

OHSU Hospital ranks No. 1 in the Portland metro area, as well as statewide, according to U.S. News Best Hospitals 2015-16. The Doernbecher NICU is one of the top neonatal intensive care programs in the nation.

We have you covered

Every possible need for you and your baby can be taken care of right here. Whether you choose a completely natural delivery or are in need of specialized intervention, you will never have to transfer to another hospital or care team. We have certified nurse-midwives and some of the nation's top doctors and specialists available. The Doernbecher Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), one of the most advanced NICU’s in the region, is located right next to the labor and delivery unit.