FAQ
Why would I choose a midwife?
Midwives support physiological birth and achieve excellent outcomes. You develop a relationship of trust with your midwife so you feel safe, supported and heard throughout your pregnancy and birth. You will be actively involved in making decisions, and we provide evidence based information and research to help you make those decisions
What if I want a hospital birth?
Of course! You choose where to give birth, whether at home or in the hospital. We are comfortable in both settings!
But is midwifery safe?
Absolutely! Lots of good quality research shows that midwifery care is safe for healthy folks. According to the Canadian Association of Midwives "midwife attended births, both at home and in hospital, involve significantly lower rates of intervention and, at the same time, very low rates of maternal and neonatal/perinatal morbidity and mortality." The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada (SOGC) states: "the integration of midwifery into the obstetrical health care team is fostering excellence."
Should I see a doctor as well if I have a midwife?
NO, you can have only one care provider for your pregnancy. Midwives, doctors and obstetricians are all primary care providers. Your midwife is a health care professionals responsible for making sure you and your baby are well.
What is different between physician care and midwifery care?
Family doctors and midwives provide many similar services including:
- Access to genetic testing, lab tests, ultrasounds and specialist referrals for complications in pregnancy.
- Support people through pregnancy, birth and the early postpartum period.
- Write prescriptions, access pain relief medication in labour, and repair tears.
I had a cesarean section before, can I still have a midwife?
Yes, we can help explore your options for birth after a cesarean section and support you whether you choose a vaginal birth or another cesarean section.
Can I bring my partner and/or kids to appointments?
Certainly! It's a great way for everyone to be involved in your pregnancy and we welcome you to bring any support people you would like.
What if I want a midwife but don't live in the Lac La Biche area?
We have very very limited space. You will be required to travel to Lac La Biche for all of your appointments and the birth. We ask that you stay for at least 1-2 days after the birth so we can provide postpartum care in that time.
Are midwives and doulas the same thing?
No. Doulas provide valuable physical and emotional support to a woman in labour, but they do NOT provide medical care or deliver babies. Your midwife DOES provide medical care, she monitors the well-being of you and your baby in pregnancy and labour, and will catch your baby!
What kind of training do midwives have?
Midwives have a Bachelor degree focusing on pregnancy, labour and birth and newborn care. We must be registered with the College of Alberta Midwives. The first year of practice is mentored by an experienced midwife. We have ongoing training in obstetrical emergency skills, neonatal resuscitation, and fetal heart rate monitoring.