FAQs
Am I a candidate for out of hospital birth?
Midwives care for low risk women, so not all women are candidates for midwifery care. Some common examples of conditions that might risk women out of the care of a midwife include:
Major medical or obstetrical problems
Diabetes
Twins (or more)
Preterm delivery
High blood pressure
Women who are low-risk and healthy, desire minimal interventions during the course of pregnancy & birth and are willing to actively participate in shared decision-making for their health, are suitable candidates for an out of hospital birth.
Most women are low risk and remain this way throughout their pregnancy.
A formal risk assessment will be taken at the consultation or initial visit.
What’s the difference between a midwife and a doula?
Midwives are trained healthcare providers who offer care throughout pregnancy, labor, birth and the postpartum period. They examine, diagnose, and treat low-risk pregnancies.
A doula’s primary role is to be there for you, your baby, and your partner during pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. Doulas offer emotional, informative and physical support. They can be a huge asset to many women in labor.
Together we both work to ensure you are well-informed and fully supported during your pregnancy and birth. Midwives are always supportive of women who choose to have a doula at their birth.
Do I need an OB in addition to a licensed midwife?
No. Licensed midwives are autonomous practitioners who provide standard maternity care including labs and ordering ultrasounds. There is no need to be seen at a hospital in labor or postpartum unless a complication arises. If you began your care with an obstetrician and wish to transfer, your records will be requested and included for continuity of care.
How do I start care with My Midwife Tia Home Birth & Midwifery Care?
Please visit the “contact us” form and request a consultation. Consultations will be offered during office hours.
What are payment options? Do you accept insurance?
Please visit the “Investment” tab above.
Do you offer water birth?
Absolutely! Please visit the “water birth” tab under our list of services.
Can I eat and drink in labor?
Yes! Labor is a marathon and we encourage this in order to fuel your body.
What happens in case of emergency or if we have to transfer care?
Evidence shows that statistically, out of hospital birth is safe for healthy, low risk women. Occasionally, problems arise during pregnancy or labor, and a consultation or transfer of care to an obstetrician may be recommended.
If transfer of care is the best option, all of the client’s current medical records will be provided to the practitioner or hospital of her choice. If the transfer is occurring during labor and is not an emergency (ie., prolonged labor, desire for pain medications), we will provide all relevant information on the clients current condition to the hospital of her choosing. If a complication arises during labor that is an emergency, the client will be transferred to the nearest hospital via EMS.
All of this is discussed and planned by 36 weeks gestation via our Emergency Care Plan.