What It’s Really Like to Deliver at Patewood Hospital

Choosing where to deliver your baby is a deeply personal decision. Hospitals like Patewood Hospital will have websites and tours can share policies and amenities, but they leave out what moms really want to know. How it feels to give birth there from real experiences.

To help expectant Greenville moms make a more informed decision, I gathered anonymous feedback from over 30 moms who delivered at Patewood Hospital. These responses were collected through a private questionnaire shared within a Greenville moms community. This guide represent a wide range of birth experiences, including medicated and unmedicated vaginal births, scheduled and emergency C-sections, and first-time and experienced mothers.

Below is a thoughtful overview of what these moms shared.

The Overall Birth Experience at Patewood Hospital

Across nearly every response, one theme rose to the surface: the nursing care. Many moms described feeling genuinely supported, listened to, and cared for throughout their labor and delivery. The environment itself was also frequently mentioned as clean, calm, and peaceful — helping reduce anxiety during an already intense experience.

“My labor and delivery nurse was excellent.”
“One specific nurse was a literal saint and I cannot thank her enough.”
“It felt like a spa experience or a vacation. Everything was immaculately clean.”

While most experiences were positive, a small number of moms shared that Patewood Hospital wasn’t the right fit for them. Moms who prioritized medical care and strong nursing support often had very positive experiences. Those seeking a more autonomous or low-intervention approach sometimes felt it wasn’t the best match.

Labor and Delivery Nurses

If there is one area where experiences were overwhelmingly consistent, it was nursing care. From labor through postpartum, moms repeatedly highlighted nurses as the most impactful part of their birth experience at Patewood.

Many moms shared that their nurses made them feel calm, supported, and truly cared for. For some, nursing support completely reshaped how they viewed birth, especially if they were coming in with anxiety or past trauma.

“The nurses listened and advocated for me. I had previously had a traumatic birth at another facility, but the nurses at Patewood made me feel empowered and heard.”

Others described nurses as deeply attentive, patient, and emotionally present, even during long labors or late-night shifts.

“Our labor and delivery nurse took every moment to teach us anything she could.”

“If I could have nominated every nurse for a Daisy Award, I would have.”

“My night nurse was the sweetest and most patient person. I will never forget her.”

Several moms specifically noted how nurses helped them navigate difficult decisions by explaining options clearly without pressure.

“They advised me during decision making but never pressured me.”

Nurses frequently stepped in to advocate for moms when medical recommendations felt rushed or overwhelming, especially during labor.

“Once I said I didn’t want an epidural, the nurses helped remind the doctor and stood up for me.”

Taken together, these experiences suggest that nursing care at Patewood is not just technically strong, but incredibly wonderful! For many moms, the nurses were the steady presence that made birth feel manageable, safe, and even positive.

Doctors that deliver at Patewood Hospital

Experiences with physicians at Patewood were more varied than experiences with nursing care. While many moms felt confident in the medical expertise of their doctors, the emotional tone and level of bedside interaction differed from provider to provider.

Several moms shared positive experiences and strong trust in their OBs, particularly when they had an established relationship prior to delivery.

“Very positive overall. I loved my doctor and she delivered both my kids.”
“I had a good experience with the doctors and would deliver again here.”

Others noted that physician interactions were often brief, especially during active labor, with doctors moving in and out quickly while nurses provided most of the ongoing support.

“The physicians were in and out in five minutes.”

A few moms shared that bedside manner did not always match the level of medical care, particularly during labor or induction.

“The doctor didn’t have the best bedside manner, but the nurses more than made up for it.”

When medical decisions needed to be made, some moms appreciated clear explanations and felt included in the process.

“They explained everything and made sure I felt comfortable before proceeding.”

Others felt more pressure toward intervention than they expected, particularly when hoping for a low-intervention birth.

“He really pushed for an epidural from the moment I got there.”

Overall, moms tended to differentiate between clinical competence and emotional support. While many trusted the physicians to manage medical needs effectively, it was the nurses who most often filled the role of advocate, communicator, and emotional anchor throughout labor and delivery.

Helpful Tips to Keep in Mind

• Try to meet as many doctors in your OB practice as possible during pregnancy so you’re familiar with whoever is on call.
• Choose a provider you feel comfortable with and who listens to your concerns during prenatal care.
• Ask detailed questions ahead of time about pain management options so there are no surprises during labor.
• If a low-intervention or unmedicated birth is important to you, consider additional support such as a doula.

C-Section Experiences at Patewood Hospital

For many moms, a Cesarean birth was not part of the original plan. Whether scheduled ahead of time or decided quickly due to medical necessity, C-sections can bring a lot of fear and uncertainty. Across the responses gathered, however, C-section experiences at Patewood stood out as one of the most consistently positive aspects of care.

Several moms shared that this was their first surgical experience and that the calm, reassuring presence of the care team made a significant difference. Clear communication before and during surgery helped ease anxiety and allowed moms to feel informed rather than overwhelmed.

“Supported is an understatement. I was absolutely terrified when I got in the OR. From the moment they wheeled me in, I felt like they were taking care of me like family.”

In emergency situations, moms described the team as efficient, coordinated, and focused, without sacrificing compassion.

“I had a placenta abruption and everything moved very fast. Once they suspected it, they immediately prepared the OR. We were in surgery in under an hour and everyone was wonderful from start to end.”

“The experience was very scary and stressful when my labor didn’t go as planned and we had to make quick decisions, but the nurses were incredibly supportive and caring, and most importantly focused on the health and safety of my baby.”

Many moms also highlighted the role of anesthesia staff and nurses during surgery, noting how comforting it was to have someone focused solely on their emotional wellbeing while medical care was happening.

“They explained everything in a way that helped me relax and stayed right by my side during the entire surgery.”

Postoperative care was another area where Patewood received strong praise. Moms shared that they felt closely monitored without feeling rushed, and that recovery nurses were attentive, encouraging, and patient as they adjusted to both healing and caring for a newborn.

“The post-op nurses were very good and made sure I was comfortable before moving me to the mom and baby unit.”

A small number of moms noted differences in support depending on the time of day or staffing, but even those experiences were often paired with gratitude for specific nurses who made a lasting impression.

Taken together, these responses suggest that Patewood is particularly well suited for moms who know they will be delivering via C-section or who want reassurance that, if plans change, surgical birth is handled with care, clarity, and compassion.

Natural and Low-Intervention Birth

For moms who hoped for a natural or low-intervention birth, experiences at Patewood were more mixed, and in many cases, less supportive than other aspects of care.

While some moms did feel their preferences were respected, many described needing to advocate strongly for themselves or experiencing early pressure toward medical intervention.

“Everything I wanted was respected, and everyone asked what my preferences were.”

However, several moms shared that unmedicated labor did not feel like the default approach, and that options beyond an epidural were limited.

“The lack of alternative pain relief options.” and one mom noted they “only offered the epidural.”

Some moms described feeling pushed toward intervention sooner than expected, particularly by physicians, though nurses often played a key role in supporting their wishes.

“He really pushed for an epidural from the moment I got there, but once I said I didn’t want one, the nurses helped remind him to wait until I asked.”

Others reflected on how added advocacy could have changed their experience.

“I wish I had hired a doula to help me stand firm in my rights.”

In cases where birth plans changed for medical reasons, clear communication made a difference.

“Our plan was to do natural, but it became an emergency. My doctor explained why she recommended a C-section, and that helped.”

Taken together, these responses suggest that Patewood may not be the best fit for moms who are strongly committed to an unmedicated or low-intervention birth without additional advocacy or support. Moms who felt most prepared emphasized the importance of asking detailed questions ahead of time and considering extra support, such as a doula, if a low-intervention birth is a priority.

Postpartum Recovery and Hospital Stay

Postpartum care was another area where many moms consistently felt supported. Nurses were often described as attentive, encouraging, and deeply present, helping moms navigate not only physical recovery but also the emotional transition into new parenthood. Several moms shared that postpartum nurses, in particular, acted as steady cheerleaders during a vulnerable time.

“Recovery was amazing, the recovery team took time to explain everything to us in detail from what the first night will look like; what I can expect pain wise, how to swaddle, the lactation aspect, etc.”

The physical environment also played a role in how recovery felt. Moms frequently mentioned the rooms as bright, clean, and calming, noting that natural light and quiet surroundings made longer stays feel more manageable.

“The rooms were bright, clean, and peaceful.”

That said, postpartum recovery was not described as easy, of course. I mean you literally just had a child. Several moms shared specific discomforts they weren’t fully prepared for while others talked about medical concerns such as high blood pressure, heavier-than-expected bleeding, or reactions to anesthesia. A few described the physical toll of recovery as more intense than anticipated, even when everything was medically stable.

Despite these challenges, most moms shared that they felt closely monitored and supported during recovery. Nurses were described as responsive to pain concerns, proactive about checking vitals, and willing to provide comfort measures such as heating pads, encouragement to rest, and help with mobility when needed.

“My recovery was very challenging. The pain was greater than I expected, but my nurse in the mom and baby unit was so fantastic. They are like your biggest cheerleader during recovery.”

In cases where recovery felt especially hard, moms often emphasized that attentive nursing care made a meaningful difference in how supported they felt during those first days after birth.

Moms who were able to go home within 24 hours often described a smoother postpartum experience, while those who stayed longer were usually navigating more intense physical recovery or medical concerns.

Newborn Care and Feeding Support

Experiences with newborn care and feeding support varied, but many moms shared that they felt well supported by both nurses and lactation staff during their hospital stay.

Several moms described nurses as knowledgeable, patient, and responsive when it came to newborn care, especially in the early hours after birth. Moms appreciated having questions answered, access to supplies, and reassurance as they adjusted to caring for a newborn.

“Anytime we had a question, I felt like we were given a helpful answer.”
“They have all the supplies for baby like diapers, wipes, and more.”

Feeding support, in particular, stood out as an area where choice and respect mattered. Moms who chose to formula feed or combination feed often emphasized that they felt no pressure to breastfeed.

“I didn’t want to breastfeed and I did not feel pressured to. The lactation consultant brought me materials on drying up my milk with no shame or pressure.”

For moms who wanted to breastfeed, experiences depended largely on timing and availability. Lactation consultants at Patewood Hospital are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and moms who delivered outside of those hours often relied on bedside nurses for initial support.

When lactation support aligned with timing, many moms found it extremely helpful.

“An IBCLC visited me with both births and we had in-depth discussion and evaluation. They were great.”
“The lactation consultants came around at least once a day, brought both a manual and electrical pump, and gave helpful advice.”

Others shared that while they ultimately received good support, there were delays that made the first day more challenging.

“I only got ahold of a lactation nurse the second day due to the time I had my baby, so the normal nurses did the best they could until she could get there.”

Overall, these experiences suggest that newborn care at Patewood Hospital is generally strong, with nurses playing a central role in early support. At the time of writing this, lactation consultants at Patewood are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with bedside nurses providing feeding support outside of those hours.

Let’s Talk About the Food At Patewood Hospital

Food may not be top of mind when planning for birth, but it comes up often once you are in the hospital, especially if your stay lasts more than a day. Many moms shared their thoughts on the food at Patewood, so it felt worth addressing.

Like many hospitals, Patewood offers a patient meal ordering system where you are given a menu and can choose what you would like for each meal. If you do not select a meal, one is chosen for you. Visitors can use the cafeteria, and families are allowed to bring in outside food or order delivery.

“You got to pick and choose what you wanted. If you didn’t choose, they would pick for you.”

Reactions to the food itself varied. Some moms were pleasantly surprised and found it better than expected for hospital food.

“For hospital food, very good.”
“The food was great. It’s not a five star restaurant, but it wasn’t inedible.”
“Good options, and the kitchen staff who delivered food was extremely nice.”

Others were less impressed, often noting that appetite, cravings, or recovery played a role.

“Honestly awful, but I’m picky.”
“It depended on the meal.”
“Mediocre. Wish there were more options.”

Many moms shared that they relied on food brought by family or ordered in, especially for longer stays or specific cravings during recovery.

Overall, the food at Patewood Hospital was described as acceptable and functional. Some moms enjoyed it, others did not, and many supplemented with outside food. Knowing how meal ordering works ahead of time can help set expectations during your stay.

What Moms Loved Most About Delivering at Patewood Hospital

It should be no surprise that moms raved about the amazing nurses at Patewood. Across nearly every response, nursing care was mentioned as the most memorable and meaningful part of the birth experience.

Moms described nurses as kind, attentive, and deeply supportive during labor, delivery, and recovery. Many shared that nurses made them feel calm and stayed present during moments that felt overwhelming or emotional.

“The nurses. True saints.”
“My labor and delivery nurse was excellent.”
“If I could have nominated every nurse for a Daisy Award, I would have.”

Beyond individual interactions, moms also appreciated the overall environment at Patewood. Words like peaceful, calm, and welcoming came up often. Many comments said the hospital felt clean, organized, and easy to navigate.

“It was a very peaceful experience.”
“The rooms were large, clean, and bright.”
“The experience eased my anxiety.”

For many families, the combination of attentive nursing care and a calm, supportive environment made a lasting impression and shaped how they remember their birth experience.

What Moms Wish They Had Known Before Delivering at Patewood

When moms reflected on what they wished they had known before delivering at Patewood, their responses varied at first glance. But taken together, a clear pattern emerged. Most of these reflections were not about the quality of care, but about hospital policies, systems and logistics.

Hospital policies and structure

Some moms mentioned the presence of students during care, which they didn’t mind but hadn’t anticipated. Some moms shared that Patewood may transfer care for very early or preterm concerns.
Others were surprised to learn that delivery and recovery happen in different rooms and that there is no overnight nursery. These policies shaped the experience in ways moms wished they had understood more clearly before arriving.

Pain management and mobility expectations

Another group of responses centered around pain management and labor options. Some moms shared that they hadn’t realized how limited alternative pain relief options were, or that epidurals were the primary offering. Others mentioned logistical limitations, such as limited access to wireless monitors, which affected their ability to move freely during labor.

These responses connect closely to the broader theme that Patewood functions as a medically managed hospital environment, which may not align with every birth preference.

Practical logistics that affect comfort

Several moms wished they had known more about the practical details of a hospital stay. These included needing bloodwork completed ahead of a scheduled C-section, understanding visitor and support person policies, and knowing how much or how little to pack. Some moms were pleasantly surprised to find that most essentials were provided. Others wished they had prepared differently for rest, sleep, or support.

Advocacy and expectation setting

A few moms reflected on advocacy, noting that they wished they had better understood their rights or had additional support present during labor.

One mom shared that she wished she had hired a doula to help her stand firm in her preferences. Others noted that clearer expectations around policies and procedures could have reduced stress in the moment.

Taken together, these responses suggest that the biggest surprises at Patewood were not about care itself, but about understanding how the hospital operates day to day. For many moms, knowing these details ahead of time could have helped them feel more prepared and confident going into delivery.

Shared Stories, Real Experiences

Every birth experience is different, and no single guide can capture them all. My hope with this resource was not to present one “right” experience, but to reflect the wide range of real stories shared by Greenville moms.

If you’ve delivered at Patewood and your experience looked different than what’s shared here, or if you’d like to add your own perspective, I would genuinely love to hear from you. These conversations matter, and they help make resources like this more honest and complete.

If you found this guide helpful, please consider sharing it with another expecting mom who may be weighing her options. Choosing where to give birth can feel overwhelming, and hearing from other moms often makes it feel a little less lonely.

Reading this while pregnant, tired, and maybe a little overwhelmed? Hi. I’m a newborn and family photographer in Greenville. I spend my days with brand-new parents who are running on very little sleep and a whole lot of love. I also spend a lot of time listening to moms talk about their birth experiences, worries, and the things they wish they had known sooner. That is why I create resources just like this. Maternity and newborn photos often come up during this season, and I love making that part feel easy, relaxed, and like one less thing to worry about.

This guide was created by Bloom Photography, where I photograph newborns and families here in Greenville. I spend a lot of time listening to moms in this season of life, and this felt like a meaningful way to give back to the community that trusts me with their stories.

Thank you to every mom who shared her experience, and to every mom reading this as she prepares for her own.