Take your time

It's best to investigate the pros and cons of midwifery very early in your pregnancy, or even before if possible.  If you decide that you would prefer to have a midwife you will want to be absolutely certain that the midwife is available for the time period of your due date.  Having a midwife delivery is an increasingly popular option and their availability cannot be guaranteed.

It's a good idea to contact several midwives for interviews so that you can ask questions and get a feel for the level of support you will have available.  Because this is such a personal experience for you, you will want to know that it's possible to build trust and rapport with whomever you choose.   Does this midwife understand your natural fears and will you feel she is listening to you when you are anxious about any aspect of the birth?  Is she warm and personable or is she regimented and very matter-of-fact?  Determine what you need emotionally from your midwife.  You may prefer one who is business-like while someone else will want a lot of emotional support.

In your interviews with the midwives, ask about their credentials.  Do they have the necessary certifications and licenses to practice legally?  Are they affiliated with a hospital or do they work independently?  Do they have a good relationship with medical personnel and can they obtain medical care for you in a timely way should there be complications?  What is the extent of their care?  How much care do they provide beforehand, and how much care afterwards?  Do they provide general information in other related areas, such as breastfeeding and birth control?  Find out how much experience the midwife has.

If you want to give birth at home, will this be an option with the midwife you are choosing?  Some women feel safe and secure in their own surroundings and need a midwife who will honour that.  Others prefer to have their babies in hospital so that emergency medical care is on the spot if it should be needed.  Still others want a combination of the two and choose a birthing center.  If your choice of venue is written in stone, be sure it's one your midwife can work with.

The choices available to you will differ depending on the area in which you live.  Urban areas always have a wider variety of choices.  Rural areas are limited, as would be expected.  Sometimes you have home-birth options and sometimes you don't.  There is the option of private care or public care.   Consider all the factors before making your decision and you will provide yourself with the birthing atmosphere that is perfectly suited to you.

Article by Rachel Goodchild

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