Over the years, we've heard a lot of questions about what midwives do and what using our services means for the prospective parents. And we know that a lot of people hesitate to ask some questions because they think they might sound silly. Rest assured there are no silly questions.
But there are some that get asked a lot. So we've put together as many as we could think of to save you the worry of asking it yourself. So go ahead and check out our list to see whether the answer you're looking for is already here. And if it isn't, feel free to ask it.
- Q: What is a Midwife?Top
A: A midwife is a registered health care professional who provides primary care to low-risk women throughout their pregnancy, labour and birth and provides care to both mother and baby during the first six weeks following the birth. Midwives work together in group practices. A woman receives care from a small number of midwives. During regularly scheduled visits to the midwifery practice, midwives provide clinical examinations, counseling and education. Women in midwifery care normally do not see a physician during their pregnancy, labour or the first six weeks after the birth unless complications arise.
- Q: How do I obtain the services of a midwife?Top
A: Midwifery care is free to all residents of Ontario. You can contact us directly, as you don't need a referral from a doctor. If you're interested or want to know more, please contact us by phone or e-mail. (See Contact Us page for details).
- Q: What happens at my first visit?Top
A: The full details of midwifery care are reviewed so you can carefully consider whether our care is appropriate for you. we will want to know your expectations, plans, hopes and concerns about midwifery care. At the first or second visit, we will do a full history and physical assessment.
- Q: Will I see the same person throughout my care? Who will be with me for my baby's birth?Top
A: You will meet three midwives during the course of your pregnancy. One will be designated your Primary midwife, and will have most of the responsibility for your prenatal and postpartum care. As two midwives are present at each birth, you will be assigned a Second midwife, whom you will meet at least twice during your pregnancy. You will also meet a Third midwfe during your pregnancy. The Third will attend your birth in the place of your Primary or Second, in the event that they are unavailable at the time of your labour and birth (due to simultaneous births or scheduled off-call time).
- Q: How often will I have appointments?Top
A: In general, women are seen once a month until the 28th week; every two weeks from then to the 36th week; and weekly thereafter until labour begins. After the birth, at least five visits are made with the final visit about six weeks after the baby is born. Other visits are arranged as needed for individual circumstances. Some prenatal and most postnatal visits take place in your home.
- Q: Where can my baby be born?Top
A: We will discuss your preferred place of birth with you. We will attend births at home for women who have no medical or pregnancy problems. We have admitting privileges at the Montfort Hospital.
- Q: What happens if my baby or I develop complications?Top
A: Depending on the nature of the problems we will refer you to your family doctor or a specialist such as an obstetrician or pediatrician. We cannot treat medical problems such as infections or other illnesses and cannot manage the care of an ill newborn. If a transfer of care is necessary, we will continue to be involved in a supportive role.
- Q: Will I be looked after by students?Top
A: For most of the year, midwifery students work in the practice. we are committed to education and want our clients to help us teach students to be sensitive and caring midwives. Students are always supervised by a qualified midwife.
- Q: What can I do to get the most benefit from my care?Top
A: Be an informed participant in your care.
Use our lending library if you wish.
Write your questions down and bring them to your visits and get the answers.
Attend information sessions in your community about maternity services.
