If you are interested in learning more about your options for out of hospital birth attended by a Certified Professional Midwife in the Columbia, MO area, please fill out the information form found here.

A Midwife Makes the Difference

It is the middle of the night. You have been having contractions for the past several hours. They have be mild so far, but are becoming more powerful. You have been waiting and wondering about birth for months, nervous about the unknown, but excited to finally meet your baby face to face. Your emotions swirl as you accept that your body is finally ready to do the work to bring your baby into the world. It is time to call the midwife. 

The foundation of the care I offer to clients is that birth is a normal, natural part of any person's reproductive life. You trust and rely on your body, and must be able to trust and rely on those who care for you. This trust unfolds over time through the forming of a unique and comfortable relationship. To build this relationship and support normal, healthy birth, my care typically includes:
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• Prenatal appointments that last 45-60 minutes. These take place in a home-like environment and are individually catered to provide you with the answers you need. You will be cared for by the same person at your appointments and continuously through labor, birth and postpartum. You will never be left in a waiting room wondering how long it will be before you get a chance to see your provider.
• Direct access to your midwife. You will always be able to call, text, or email me directly and can expect speedy, direct, personal responses.
• Continuous labor support in the location of your choosing. You will be able to labor and birth in the environment and position you choose. You will be able to move, eat, drink, and labor freely and without arbitrary restrictions. You will be given the opportunity to individually approve every person who is present for your birth. 
• Attentive postpartum care in your own home. You and your baby will be thoroughly tended to in the comfort of your own home. You will have no need to venture out to a clinic full of sick people to get care for yourself or your baby. Your questions will be quickly and clearly answered. You will be given all the support and return visits you need to get your breastfeeding off to a great start. 
• Ongoing help and support should you need hospital services for any reason. If you develop a need to receive physician-based care at any time, I will help to arrange the care you require and remain with you as a support person until your care is resolved. 
• Modern maternity interventions when necessary. I strive to respect and support the normal process of birth by limiting interference. If a situation arises where the skilled use of interventions seems necessary, I will participate in the decision of how and when to apply those with you and provide them as needed. I can also help arrange access to ultrasound, laboratory, and limited medications when indicated.
• Respect for your individuality. I am committed to providing inclusive care that is available to all families. Your consent and agreement with every element of your care is a vital part of a safe and satisfying birth experience.

Even though it is 2 am, I quickly answer your call. I am calm and friendly over the phone. I ask you questions about what you are experiencing and reply with reassurance and encouragement. You feel supported and prepared. You know I am on the way and you and your baby are about take a profound journey together...