Pregnancy care:

• Medical history reviewed and discussed for a full understanding.
• Complete physical exams and GYN exams as necessary
• Full range of laboratory tests available including ultrasound and blood work.
• Regular and complete check ups for you and your baby throughout your pregnancy and during labor to make sure the birth is proceeding safety and peacefully.
• Medical consultation with an Obstetrician if needed.
• Nutritional counseling
• Free late pregnancy and childbirth preparation class
• Encouragement to develop a Birth Plan and supportive of anyone you'd like present at the birth.
• Labor and/or birth in water.
• Continuous care during labor and birth in the comfort and privacy of your own home
• Encouragement of movement in labor however the mother wants, with nourishment and rest as needed.
• Encourage the progress of labor and help you to birth your baby gently.
• Help you avoid risks to you and your baby that can be caused by standard medical techniques and hospital protocols.
• Ability to do sutures if necessary, although you will be encouraged to learn techniques which will prevent vaginal tears and given support in the process of birthing to prevent tearing.
• Post-partum care and help with breastfeeding. We don't leave you until breastfeeding is established and both you and your baby are resting comfortably.
• Postpartum Home visits immediately after birth for the new mother and baby
• Lending library of pregnancy, birth, family and health related books
• Relationship with Water tub rental agencies
• Doula recommendations given if desired. Possibility of free doula for lower income clients.
• Relationship with Pregnancy and birth photographers
• Special relationship with other health care/holistic workers if you desire body work.

What you need to know:

• I and my apprentices are always on call for you. “You will know we are there for you.”
• Non-hurried visits that last 45-60 minutes. “You will be unrushed and given time to ask questions”.
• Informed consent - all procedures will be fully explained with the benefits, risks, and alternatives given . “I believe you should be given truthful and clear information so that you make all the decisions around your care.”
• Help with discovering your own body's ability to give birth, in its own way and in its own time . “I believe your body is perfect and every woman's birth has its own rhythm.”
• You will be fully supported in the journey of your birth. “ I believe the woman is the one who births and the midwives job is to comfort, assist, and believe in her at all times.”
• We stay with the family for approximately 4 hours after birth. “Mom and baby will be assessed and cared for so that when we leave the family can rest peacefully.”