We are typically in touch at the earliest sign of labor, keeping in close contact until we come to your home. We, being myself and my assistant midwife. We try to attend each birth in a team of two on the rare chance the baby and mother need attention simultaneously. We attend you in person when labor becomes “active” with contractions coming at least every 5 minutes. Individual needs and birth history are taken into consideration as well as the current situation. Once we are with you, we access the condition and health of mother and baby by monitoring vital signs periodically and helping with the safe progression of labor.

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The vast majority of mothers and babies do best with a “hands off," less is more approach. Vaginal exams are kept to an absolute minimum. Most women birth with no vaginal exams at all. Care of the mother includes attention to comfort, emotional support, nourishment, fluid intake, elimination and cleanliness. The couple is provided with information, explanations and suggestions as necessary to allow their active involvement in the labor process. This insures informed decision making when appropriate. Personal needs are acknowledged and respected. Well prepared children, family and friends are welcome per your discretion of course.

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Parents are encouraged to touch their babies before being fully born and “receive” and “catch” their own baby. The baby, once born gets a good looking over on mother’s chest where the baby’s transition to extrauterine life is assessed, giving assistance when indicated. Apgar scores are given.

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The umbilical cord is left intact as the baby receives all of its blood (1/3 their volume) and all the stem cells we know to be so valuable. This also supplies the baby with oxygenated blood as they are establishing their respirations.

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A pediatric exam is advised sometime the second week after birth. We meet again at week 3 and our final visit occurs around 6-8 weeks postpartum. During all postpartum visits your physical and emotional needs are addressed. We encourage you to plan for this important time with your baby. Most cultures recognize a 40 day “lying in” period which helps women back on their feet faster by taking the time to heal.