You will work closely with your midwife during your pregnancy, and be given plenty of time to become comfortable with her. At least one hour is scheduled for each prenatal visit in order to address your care in as much depth as is needed. You will almost always be able to reach your midwife by phone - calls will not have to be filtered through several different people before you can reach your care provider.
Prenatals are scheduled every month up to 32 weeks, every two weeks from 32-36 weeks, and weekly from 36 weeks until your due date. Prenatals can be scheduled in your home or in your midwife's office. During each prenatal we will monitor you and your baby's basic physical health and growth, and take time to discuss/address any issues or concerns that may come up. Your midwife will explain all procedures and decisions to your satisfaction. By law, you will be required to have two prenatals with a physician who has agreed to see your midwife's clients. The only testing required while under a midwife's care are: your basic prenatal bloodwork and later hemoglobin testing around 28 weeks. Your midwife will offer additional services which you are free to accept or decline.
During labor you and your baby will be monitored closely, but not invasively. You will be offered labor support and many options for relieving discomfort and aiding the normal progress of labor.
Your midwife will be with you anywhere from 3-12 hours after the birth of your baby or until you both seem to be in a stable condition and the baby is nursing. She will return within 24-36 hours afterwards for another postpartum checkup. Another 2 home visits are available in your first week postpartum. Midwifery care continues up to six weeks postpartum and typically your midwife will see you around 2, 4, and 6 weeks postpartum.
