This step is SO important!
Do you want a lot of say in what happens to you and your baby? Do you want a safe, low intervention birth that respects the normal physiology of birth and receive interventions only when medically necessary? Midwifery care at home or a freestanding birth center might be the way to go for you! This is at the heart of midwifery care, respectful and safe care. Can you have a midwife in a hospital? Absolutely!
If you want or need a cesarean, a medicated birth, or have a complicated medical case or high-risk situation an OB surgeon at the hospital is probably the way to go!
Learn more about the differences between a Midwife, OB, and Doula
here.
No matter the type of care provider you choose, make sure to interview a few before deciding. Not all Midwives or OBs are made the same. People have different philosophies, different wants and needs. What’s important is that you feel safe, comfortable, and you and your birth preferences are respected. Getting in touch with a local doula or childbirth educator can get you some great referrals!
Location? Home, Birth Center, Hospital? Care provider and location go hand in hand. Where do you feel safest? Do you think birth is a normal life event or a medical emergency most of the time? Only you can decide what’s best for you and your baby.
Regardless if you have a straightforward healthy pregnancy or have health complications, you still deserve respectful care. Having quality care that respects normal physiology is important (whether or not you need medical assistance) so you can have the safest and healthiest birth outcome possible.
Finding a provider that respects you, your baby, and the process of birth (be it OB, Midwife, etc.) is something to keep in mind as you choose the provider and location that is the best fit for you and your personal situation.