Frequently Asked Questions

We believe every mother should have the freedom to choose the birth experience that is right for her. While we are strong advocates for safe homebirths in healthy pregnancies, we respect that each family’s decision is deeply personal and unique. We encourage our clients to take an active role in their decision making process by researching their options and asking questions, so they feel fully informed and empowered to choose the birth setting that aligns with their needs and values.

Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) are trained to offer skilled care for women throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, particularly in homebirth settings. Their training includes:

• Completing a comprehensive midwifery program covering prenatal, labor, birth, and postpartum care

• Gaining hands-on experience through supervised apprenticeships with experienced midwives

• Earning certification through the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM)

• Participating in ongoing education to stay informed about the latest practices and safety protocols

CPMs specialize in low-risk pregnancies and are trained to recognize when medical intervention is necessary, always prioritizing informed care.

Yes! There can be a misconception that you must live in a house to actually have a homebirth. Homebirths can work in all sorts of spaces. Think about the size of a hospital room.. they can be pretty small. I’m sure your space is bigger than a hospital room!

Yes! We understand the many benefits of water birth and are committed to ensuring our clients have the option to use this comfort measure during labor if they choose. During our consultation, we’ll discuss the benefits and risks of water birth and collaborate with each client to support their desired birth experience.

Midwives are experts in normal pregnancy and birth which means that we are always on the lookout for any sign outside of the realm of normal. Usually obstetrical complications present gradually and if caught early can be treated or referred to a physician and an appropriate course of action can be decided on between the client, midwife and physician.

Midwives are trained to handle emergencies which can occur during labor and delivery. Homebirth midwives carry oxygen, resuscitation equipment, IV equipment, suturing equipment for tears and drugs for postpartum hemorrhage, as well as maintain certification in Neonatal Resuscitation and CPR.

Although there are some similarities between midwives and doulas in the sense that both provide emotional support and suggestions for coping with labor, the biggest difference is that your midwife is responsible for monitoring the health and well-being of you and your baby, and the progress of your labor. Doulas provide you with uninterrupted support, but they do not provide medical care, and do not deliver babies.

Studies comparing midwifery care to physician-led care have shown that midwifery clients experience lower rates of forceps and vacuum extractions, cesarean sections, episiotomies, infections, and the need for resuscitation at birth. Midwifery clients are encouraged to make informed choices about their care and have access to all routine medical testing during pregnancy, including blood work, genetic testing, and ultrasounds. Additionally, midwifery clients benefit from building a trusting, personal relationship with their midwives throughout pregnancy. Central to midwifery practice is ensuring women feel respected and supported, empowering them to experience pregnancy, childbirth, and motherhood with strength and dignity.

Midwives guide women through the natural process of birth, utilizing a variety of techniques and tools to ease and support the challenges of labor. If pain relief such as an epidural is needed, or if a complication arises, we will transfer you to a hospital that we have previously agreed upon during your prenatal care.

If you require caesarean section, your care will be transferred to an obstetrician for the delivery. If the situation allows, we will remain present the whole time. Follow-up care remains the same whether you have a vaginal or caesarean birth.

Yes of course! You are welcome to bring whichever support people you would like. Prenatal appointments are a great opportunity for your partner to meet the midwife and have questions answered, and for your children to get comfortable with the midwife and participate in your pregnancy. We do ask that if you plan to bring small children to your appointment that you have another adult accompany you to help provide childcare.

Yes! We are happy to accept late transfers. During a consultation we will review present and past medical history to assess whether or not each woman is a good candidate for homebirth.