I went private and DH actually spent all four nights in there with me, he only came home to feed our dogs and shower. I think it helped him bond even more with DD, plus he was there to hear everything the nurses had to say. The best nurse we had was our night nurse, so it was great that he was there when she would do her night time rounds. Second time around it will be different, because we have DD, but I'll still be going to the same hospital, with the same ob, even though it will cost us extra. Good luck with your decision