Pregnancy is about more than just finding attractive maternity clothes and making all your prenatal care appointments. It’s also about eating right and planning for the birth.
For example, you need to be sure you find a doctor or a midwife you like and trust to help you deliver the baby. Although I know many people prefer to use a doctor, this post is about choosing a midwife.
Here are some things you will need to keep in mind in your search for a midwife.
- Is the midwife qualified? There are certain certifications that a midwife should have, just like a doctor. Be sure to research what all the qualifications mean, and be sure any midwife you consider is qualified to attend you at your baby’s birth.
- Is the midwife insured? In order to protect you and your baby, any midwife you use should be insured. This means that if anything goes wrong, her butt will be covered — and so will yours and your baby’s.
- Does the midwife work with a doctor? Many women like to use a midwife who works with a doctor on call, just in case something goes wrong. This will require you to schedule with the hospital just in case, even if you are having a home birth.
- Can the midwife give you references? If so, be sure to follow up on them. Of course, she’ll only give you references that she knows will be positive, but still — this will give you an idea of how she works under pressure!
- Do you like the midwife? There is something to be said for making sure you like the person and feel comfortable with her. If you are nervous around her, that is anything but conducive to an uneventful childbirth. Be sure you genuinely like the midwife, and trust your gut!
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