Many expectant moms are starting to consider natural childbirth as a legitimate possibility when it comes to birthing their babies. The idea seems to not be as foreign as it has been in recent decades, and women are starting to see the benefits of natural childbirth. If you decide that having a natural birth is right for you, a midwife is highly recommended. Having a knowledgable midwife who is clears on your desires and what it takes to keep mom and baby safe can help you have a more peaceful birthing experience and avoid various unnecessary interventions. But how do you know which midwife is right for you? Here is an exhaustive life of midwife interview questions that you can take to your first appointment or meeting.
“If you have a low-risk pregnancy and want to have a natural childbirth, it’s important to work with a midwife. While there are some naturally-minded obstetrician gynecologists out there, studies show that you’ll have less medical interventions, with no negative health implications on baby/mom, with midwifery care. In fact, moms who give birth with midwives are more likely to successfully breastfeed and less likely to experience perineal lacerations (ouch!) when compared with others. Additionally, according to the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, “the evidence now shows midwife-led units to be safer than hospital for women having a straightforward (low risk) pregnancy.”
How to Find a Midwife
So, no doubt about it, a midwife is a huge asset when planning to have a low-intervention birth. But, how do you find one? Well, word of mouth is the best way. Ask any friends who have had a natural childbirth who they delivered with. If that’s not an option, here is a web-based service that will connect you with local midwives in your area.
Once you have a few midwives to choose from, it’s important that you pick the right one for you by using midwife interview questions. After all, it’s never safe to assume that a midwife, even as inherently crunchy as the role may seem, will be as naturally-minded as you are. I’ve known midwives to recommend conventional things like Tylenol, Benadryl, the flu vaccine, the Glucola drink, and routine antibiotics with GBS positive.
So, it’s important to interview your midwife to be sure you are in sync. This will ensure that your desires for natural birth and postpartum care will be honored as much as possible. Here are midwife interview questions that are important to ask before you agree to work together.
Midwife Interview Questions
Midwife Experience:
- How many years have you been practicing?
- How many babies do you delivery on average yearly?
- Where did you receive certification?
- Do you take CE (continuing education) classes?
- Are you state licensed?
- Are you a member of any associations for midwives?
Midwife Appointments:
- How often will I have appointments scheduled?
- What will happen during each appointment?
- What type of payment plan do you offer and what do your fees include?
- Can I bring a family member(s) to my appointments?
- Are you on punctual with appointment times or is there usually a wait?”
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