FAQ

A midwife is a trained healthcare professional who provides care to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Midwives offer personalized, holistic care that focuses on the physical, emotional, and social well-being of the mother and baby.

Many insurance plans cover midwifery care, but coverage varies depending on your specific plan and provider. It’s recommended to check with your insurance company to understand what services are covered and any out-of-pocket costs you may incur.

During your first visit, your midwife will take a detailed medical history, perform a physical exam, and discuss your pregnancy goals and preferences. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the midwifery model of care.

Midwives provide a range of services including prenatal care, labor and birth support, postpartum care, breastfeeding support, and family planning. They also offer education and counseling to support informed decision-making throughout the childbirth process.

Midwifery care often emphasizes a more natural approach to childbirth, focusing on promoting normal, physiologic birth whenever possible. Midwives typically spend more time with clients during prenatal visits, providing personalized care and building strong relationships. Midwives also tend to have lower rates of medical interventions during labor and birth compared to traditional obstetric care.

Yes, midwifery care is safe for low-risk pregnancies. Research has shown that for women with uncomplicated pregnancies, midwifery-led care is associated with excellent outcomes, including lower rates of interventions such as cesarean sections and epidurals, as well as high levels of satisfaction with the birth experience.

No, midwives can attend births in various settings including hospitals, birth centers, and homes. Many midwives offer a choice of birth settings to accommodate their clients’ preferences and needs.

In most cases, you do not need a referral to see a midwife. You can contact a midwife directly to schedule an appointment for prenatal care or other services.

Midwives undergo rigorous education and training, which typically includes a bachelor’s or master’s degree in midwifery, certification by a national accrediting body such as the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB), and licensure in their state or country of practice.