Practices... - Midwifery - What This Care May Mean To You

What This Care May Mean To You

There are many reasons why you may choose to have a midwife during your pregnancy and birth, some of which are outlined below.

A sense of familiarity develops from the first meeting with your midwife. The initial visit will take at least one hour and this time allows for the establishment of an important relationship to develop. As a result of knowing you so well, your midwife will feel a genuine interest in the outcome of your labour and in helping you achieve your expectations.

Studies have shown that women receiving continuity of care were more likely to discuss their worries in pregnancy, feel well prepared for labour, feel in control during labour, use less pain killers, regard her midwife as supportive, and actually enjoy the birthing experience. There was also less need for infant resuscitation.

Communication continues to be important after the birth, particularly when discussing the events that took place during labour. Most women do not have the opportunity to speak to the professional after their baby's birth, leaving them with many unanswered questions. It may be days or weeks until the moment comes when it is important for you or your partner to review the events of the birth and understand why certain situations may have appeared. One woman describes her feelings as such: "I felt most of the time that the care I received was impersonal and rushed, especially in the hospital after the birth of my daughter. I needed to discuss the birth and medical details, but was never given the chance or invited to." With midwifery care, this situation should not arise as your midwife will visit you for six weeks following your baby's birth and give you many opportunities to discuss the events surrounding it.