In August, UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital saw 71 babies born – the highest number in one month since 2017. In August 2017, there were 82 babies born.

The highest number of babies born on record at Finley Hospital is 90, back in May of 1946.

In general, 2024 has been a big year for Finley’s Family Birthing Suites. Year to date, there have been more births so far this year than in 2023 and scheduled births are skewing higher as well.

“Finley’s Family Birthing Suites is made up of a wonderful team that provides an outstanding experience for our new moms and babies,” states Jennifer Havens, President of UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital. “From our nursing team, to our neonatal nurse practitioners who care for all of our babies, but especially those in our Level II NICU, and to our mom and baby providers, each member of the team plays an important role delivering on our vision of providing the best outcome for our patients.”

The mom and baby unit at Finley is made up of 12 LDRP rooms. LDRP rooms mean that mothers labor, deliver, and recover in the same room. They also stay in the same room post-partum – meaning once they arrive at Finley they are settled in and can get comfortable in their new surroundings. The unit also includes a c-section suite, nursey, and Level II NICU.

“I’m so proud of the team we have in the Family Birthing Suites,” says Nurse Manager Jenni Scott, RN. “The month of August was very busy, however the team displayed immense dedication to the work they do and the families they serve by working extra shifts and picking up last minute to accommodate the high patient census. Our team is truly a family, and we want that to show through to the families we care for in our interactions and connections we make with them.”

Finley connects with patients starting with classes, like childbirth education and breastfeeding class, during pregnancy. Support continues after baby is born with lactation consultants at the bedside and breastfeeding support groups available weekly.

Scott adds, “Everyone tries to count back nine or ten months to see if there was a big event or celebration that led to the baby boom. In most instances, every individual has their own hypothesis on why, but either way, we are glad families continue to choose Finley and are honored to share in such a significant moment in the lives of our patients.”