Midwifery is gaining popularity as more women want input into their labor and delivery. Whether you choose a midwife or an obstetrician, every pregnant woman can benefit from a midwife’s resources.
Midwifery Path to Childbirth
“Healthy baby, healthy mom” is the goal of every pregnancy. But, how you get there is a personal choice. Midwifery is gaining popularity as more women want input into their labor and delivery. Whether you choose a midwife or an obstetrician, every pregnant woman can benefit from a midwife’s resources. At Seasons, you will meet our certified nurse midwife as well as our doctors during your pregnancy. Choose the path that makes you comfortable. You have peace of mind in knowing that we work together to ensure you have the best birth experience.
Differences in OB/GYNs and Certified Nurse Midwives
While both OB/GYNs and certified midwives have the same goal, their approach is different. OB-GYNs handle high-risk pregnancies and perform C-sections. Certified Nurse Midwives are experts in normal deliveries. They use a more holistic hands-on approach to manage pain and anxiety during labor and delivery. Because Seasons midwives deliver in the hospital, they also have access to technology and pain medications that you may need.
Is a Midwife Right for You?
Natural Childbirth: If you want a natural delivery, a midwife personalizes a birthing plan based on your preferences. You may want to move around. A midwife recognizes that every labor and delivery is different. So, your plan will adapt to your needs throughout your birthing experience.
Pain Medication: Midwives are known for their pain management techniques for patients preferring no medication. Massage oils, varying positions, birthing balls, breathing exercises and many other techniques can help control your pain. Your midwife can order pain medication or even an epidural if you change your mind.
Labor Support: A midwife offers a lot of support during labor and delivery. Because they aren’t seeing many different types of patients, they can spend more time with you. They empower you to try different approaches as your needs change.
Prenatal Education: Knowledge is power when deciding about your birth plan. A midwife spends extra time to answer questions and help you explore your options. They have resources to help you gather information so you can decide what’s best for you. Even if you already have a child, you’ll learn new things that can reduce anxiety.
Flexible Approach: Midwives take a more personalized approach. They strive to support you emotionally and physically throughout your birthing experience. You’re in the driver’s seat, so your birthing plan is always adaptable. If you prefer this approach, a midwife could be right for you.
Choose a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)
Certification is important when choosing a midwife. Certified nurse midwives (CNM) are registered nurses who have graduate degrees in addition to completing midwifery education. The program must be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME). Studies and experience include managing women in through pregnancy, labor and delivery. Certified nurse midwives also provide overall women’s healthcare, including postpartum and annual exams.