The coronavirus is causing some local hospitals to ban visitors, meaning some women are being forced to deliver babies without their partners.

Not all hospitals are banning birthing partners, but many pregnant women fear it could become the norm as the virus continues to spread at an alarming rate.

In two weeks, Melissa Binshtok is set to deliver her third child. And in a time of uncertainty, there is one thing the Suffern mother knows: she wants her husband in the delivery room.

"We need the support of our husbands, our partners. This is the most amazing time of our lives. We are bringing a baby into this world. I don't know how I am going to do it by myself," she says.

Binshtok has reason to be concerned: as the coronavirus spreads, hospitals are implementing new safety measures.

New York Presbyterian, which has two hospitals in the Hudson Valley, had banned partners from the delivery room, meaning expecting mothers are being forced to deliver without their partners.

Binshtok is delivering at White Plains Hospital, which is still allowing spouses and partners in the delivery room, but she worries that may change.

"This is a bonding time for the fathers as well to see your baby born, and you are not allowing your spouse or partner to be with you," she says.

Another concern is that some hospitals are only letting in one visitor, and Binshtok says that her kids are going to want to see their new sibling.

A petition to change New York Presbyterian's policy is garnering large support with over 300,000 signatures.

Hospital policies are changing by the day so if you are pregnant, it's a good idea to check with your hospital before you are expected to deliver.

Latest information as of 3/24/20

Northwell Health
-Northern Westchester Hospital
-Phelps Hospital

Labor & Delivery Policy:
-One designated support person for labor and may remain with patient in the postpartum unit
-No return visitation
-No visitors

St. John's Riverside Hospital

Labor & Delivery Policy:
-One support person
-No return visitation
-No visitors

Montefiore Health
-White Plains Hospital
-Montefiore Nyack Hospital

Labor & Delivery Policy:
-One birthing partner
-Only one visitor with Mom and baby after delivery
-Visitors screened for COVID-19

New York-Presbyterian
-Hudson Valley Hospital
-Lawrence Hospital

Labor & Delivery Policy:
-No birthing partners
-No visitors

Westchester Medical Center

Labor & Delivery Policy:

-One support person

-No visitors