5 Niki Pham - a year ago
My experience there was excellent. I had received 2 recommendations from 2 hospitals in Heidelberg and Mannheim to have a planned c-section for my second birth due to a potential shoulder complication during delivery. But I was looking for a hospital who supported me having a natural birth in spite of my risks. I got a third opinion at St. Josef and spoke with the Chefarzt, Dr. Kaufmann, and he evaluated my medical situation very thoroughly and gave me a very different opinion from the other 2 opinions. He wasn’t quick to recommend a c-section just because it was the easiest and lowest risk option but also considered the real risk of my situation (not just on paper) and my wishes to give birth naturally. I really followed my gut instinct and his medical opinion also supported it. In the end, it was the right decision for me and I had a completely complication-free delivery. I really felt like the Chefarzt stayed true to their advertising slogan- that the wishes of the mother is at the center. They really took into consideration my worries and I didn’t feel bullied to do anything I didn’t want to do. Additionally, dr. Kaufmann visited me personally twice a day when he was there and made it his priority to try to be there for when I delivered. This really showed his genuine care for me personally and I felt like I was in really good hands. The care and service from the midwives there were also top-notch. I had delivered in Mannheim for my first birth and it didn’t compare to the service here. At St. Josef’s, the midwives were much more personable and friendly and you really felt taken care of as an individual and not just a patient. Marlyn, the night shift nurse, was especially a gem. She was like family and so caring. The visitor policy in itself is worth it and way better than the other hospitals I had considered. in spite of Corona, my husband and child and friends could visit me here. That wouldn’t have been possible at the hospitals in Mannheim and the other in HD. The food was also better than the Mannheim hospital with a menu of options to choose from. It’s still very German but not so bad. The delivery room also had a panoramic projection of different scenes such as woods, city or sea. The front desk reception and patient registration secretary were also friendly and personable, which says a lot for German service because it’s notoriously unfriendly in German culture, I must say. There was a free birth photography service available and also a specialist who came to help do breathing/stomach exercises with you. They also had a children’s playroom and garden area which was perfect for when my son came to visit. I have to say I’m so glad I delivered my second there. I highly recommend St. Josef’s if you will be giving birth. Definitely schedule a consultation with the Chefarzt if you are considering delivering here and/or have any doubts/questions/concerns.
