Frequently Asked Questions

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How is midwifery care different? 

Midwifery care is based on relationship. We spend a lot of time with our clients, in order to  build a trusting relationship that makes their care safer. Prenatal visits last between 45-60 minutes, so there is plenty of time to answer all your questions and really get to know the midwives who will be coming to your birth. In labor you are our only focus, and we are available to support you throughout your labor. Postpartum care is another area where midwives really shine! We see you five times over the course of six weeks, with three of those visits in the first week. This kind of support enables you to feel confident as you establish breastfeeding and find your new normal. 

What about tests and ultrasounds?

As licensed midwives, we have access to all the same tests that are available with any other obstetric care provider. We can collect labs in our office, including all routine labs and genetic screening. We can also order ultrasounds at local hospitals and imaging offices. 

What supplies do I need for a home birth?

Our practice provides every client with a birth kit, which contains all the disposable supplies for birth, including underpads for the bed, cord clamps, gloves, pads, mesh undies, peri bottle, sits bath herbs and a variety of other things.  We also provide birth tubs and disposable liners free of charge.

The only supplies we ask you have are a stack of towels and a bottle or two of hydrogen peroxide!

What happens at a home birth? 

Our first priority is to make sure both mom and baby are safe. We assess maternal vital signs every four hours in labor, and listen to baby's heart rate with the doppler every thirty minutes or so until pushing. But we are also there to support you emotionally and physically as well. This can include massage, counter pressure, encouragement, and offering tips on position changes and ways to make labor more comfortable. As labor progresses to the pushing stage, we monitor baby's heart rate more closely, to ensure all is well. Once baby has been born, we monitor you and baby without interrupting your precious bonding time. All vital signs are done with baby on your chest, the placenta is delivered, and we practice delayed cord clamping. Mom and baby are never separated, and the newborn exam is done right next to you. We check for tears and can put in stitches if needed. Once everyone is stable and tucked in, we leave you to rest until we return the next day. 

Is it messy? 

Nope! We have plenty of supplies to contain any mess there may be, and we take care of any cleaning that needs to happen. All you and your partner need to do is rest and cuddle your new bundle.