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Midwifery

Waterbirth

What is Midwifery?

Midwifery is one of two primary models of maternity care.  It is based on the fact that pregnancy and childbirth are normal life events.  Midwifery care is individualized and incredibly supportive. Midwives value communication and developing a trusting, working relationship with the women and families they serve. 

The Midwives Model of Care includes:

- Monitoring the physical,  psychological and social well-being of the mother throughout the childbearing cycle; 

- Providing the mother with individualized education, counseling and prenatal care, continuous hands-on assistance during labor and delivery

   and postpartum support;

-Minimizing technological interventions;

-Identifying and referring women who require obstetrical attention.

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The application of this woman centered model of care has been proven to reduce the incidence of birth injury, trauma and cesaerean section.

Copyright (c) 1996-2008, Midwifery Task Force, Inc., All Rights Reserved

In my midwifery practice, I promise to:

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  • Partner with women and their chosen support team..

  • Respect the dignity, rights and ability of the women I serve to act responsibly.

  • Work as an autonomous practitioner, collaborating with other health and social service providers as needed.

  • Honor pregnancy and birth as normal processes, and work to optimize the well-being of mothers and babies.

  • Understand birth is a personal, social and community event.

  • Recognize that a woman is the only direct care provider for herself and her unborn baby.

  • Recognize the empowerment inherent in birth and strive to support women to make informed choices and take responsibility for their own well-being.

  • Strive to ensure vaginal birth and provide guidance and support when appropriate, utilizing medical intervention only as necessary.

  • Incorporate clinical observations, theoretical knowledge, intuitive assessment and spiritual awareness in decision making.

  • Value and prioritize continuity of care.

  • Understand the parameters of normal vary greatly and recognize that each pregnancy and birth are unique.

"If a woman doesn't look like a goddess during labor, then someone isn't treating her right."
- Ina May Gaskin
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