FAQ's

Planning a homebirth and learning about having a midwife comes with heaps of questions. Here are some of the commonly asked questions and we're available to answer more. Just ask us!

Q:     So, do you just like, come when I'm in labor? How does this work?
A:     We have practice guidelines and protocols we follow. Clients come into our care prenatally at various stages of their pregnancy and we discuss this question at length. Because prenatal care with a midwife is more than just a medical check-up, you will learn how and when to contact us before labor even begins. It's a common misconception that clients who have their babies at home do not have prenatal care. Alas, they do! Usually the entirety of their pregnancy.

Q:     After my baby is born, then what? Do you make sure my baby is ok or do we have to go to a doctor right away?
A:     Immediately when a baby is born the Midwives assess the baby and help the baby breathe, if necessary. We continue to monitor both the mother and the baby the entire time we are present. Before we leave, we do a complete newborn exam and refer to a physician if necessary.

Q:     How long do the Midwives stay after the birth?
A:     As long as both the mother and baby are well, we typically stay about two hours after birth. If we need to stay longer, we do.

Q:     What happens in the postpartum time?
A:     We provide care for both mother and baby for a full six weeks postpartum. During these appointments we evaluate baby's overall health and wellbeing. We ensure baby is gaining appropriate weight, feeding well. For the mother, we evaluate for postpartum depression and mental state, blood pressure, and bleeding. We always refer to a doctor if/when needed.

Q:     What's the latest I can come into your care?
A:     We accept all trimesters. Whether you are due in a week or just learned your are pregnant, you are welcome into the Red Tent. If you have been receiving care from another provider during your pregnancy, we will request your records and continue from there.

Q:     What if there is an emergency?
A:     In midwifery care, we are experts in normal, low-risk pregnancy, birth and postpartum. This means that we see normal so often that when something isn't normal, we identify it right away. We look for "pink flags" before they become "red flags". We address problems as they arise and discuss them with you. If there is a sudden red flag (emergency), we contact the appropriate services right away. Our main job is to keep you and your baby safe. If that means a consultation with a doctor, we get it. If it means calling 911, we do.

Q:     Who is allowed at my birth? Can my older children be there?
A:     Anyone you wish is welcome into your birth space. You are able to invite whomever you wish. Your older children are welcome to your birth so long as there is a care provider specifically for them if they need care. Labor and birth can often take hours so having another responsible party for your other children is a must. Doulas, family members, BFF's are welcome so long as you would like them present.

Q:     I want a homebirth but not a waterbirth. Do I have to have a waterbirth?
A:     Nope! Waterbirth is always optional. We provide a birth pool for our clients; it does not increase cost or affect care. You can have your baby wherever you wish!