Frequently asked questions
Do I still receive prenatal care if I am planning a home birth?
Absolutely. Home birth includes comprehensive prenatal care throughout your pregnancy. We monitor your health and your baby's well-being, discuss appropriate laboratory testing and screening, prepare for labor and birth, and continually evaluate whether home birth remains an appropriate option for you.
What do I need to provide for my home birth?
As your due date approaches, you will receive information about the supplies you should have available. Your midwife will also bring professional equipment and supplies used to monitor and care for you and your baby.
Can my partner and children be present?
One of the beautiful aspects of home birth is having greater control over your birth environment. Families can discuss who they would like present and what will help create a peaceful, supportive space.
Can I eat, drink, and move during labor?
In an uncomplicated labor, women are generally encouraged to listen to their bodies, move into comfortable positions, and maintain appropriate hydration and nourishment. You lead, I'll follow.
What happens if something changes during labor?
Your condition and your baby's well-being are continually assessed throughout labor. If something develops that is outside the appropriate scope or setting for home birth, we will discuss the concern and arrange additional evaluation or transfer when indicated.
What happens after my baby is born?
Your midwife remains with you after birth to monitor both you and your baby during the immediate postpartum period. This is also a time for bonding, skin-to-skin contact, initiating feeding, newborn assessment, and making sure both mother and baby are transitioning well.
Will I receive postpartum care?
Yes. Postpartum care is a particularly important part of my practice. I provide multiple opportunities for follow-up because I believe mothers need meaningful support during recovery, feeding, newborn adjustment, and the emotional transition into life with a new baby.