QuestionThis is my first birth, in 8 weeks, and I'll have a midwife. I picked her on the assumption that she'll spend longer in the delivery room with me (traditional hospital setting) than any of her obgyn partners or other obgyns in town. She's formerly an L&D nurse at this same facility. I want to know when she'll show up to the birth. What's a reasonable answer to this question--at 4 cm dilation? Does the effacement matter? Right after I admit? I just don't know what to even expect from her as far as a time frame, since we aren't at my house or a birth center? What kind of answer should I be looking for from her?
AnswerHello,
Congratulations! Midwives, if possible do tend to spend more time with their patients, but not the whole time. If it's during office hours and your in early labor, she may come in during lunch or after the office closes to check in on you.
Most hospital based midwives can't sit with you your whole labor. It really depends on her personal style to be honest.
Some midwives will stay for short stretches and leave you to rest and labor without distraction, while others will come and visit for 10-15 minutes. It all depends on what is happening.
It also depends on how quickly your going as to when she will be there for the birth. I've worked with many midwives who like to be there around 8-9 cm to help you push if needed, and others who prefer to be called when your completely dilated.
The way you asked me this question is exactly what you should ask her! You were very clear and had great questions!
As her:
When should I call you?
When do you suggest your patients go to the hospital?
Will you come to admit me or come and see me later? When?
How do you support your patients?
In all reality, most midwives cannot provide the constant support they think a midwife might give. There are times it just is not possible.
If you are looking for continuous support, you might want to consider a Doula who will be with you during your entire labor. You can find out more about Doula's at http://www.dona.org
Some additional questions you might want to ask are here, from the Coalition for Improving Maternity Services
http://www.motherfriendly.org/resources/10Q/
You made a great choice by choosing a midwife, open up the conversation so you will know what to expect and not expect! You'll be able to express your wishes, concerns and anything else that you might want to know about this particular midwifes practice :)
Good Luck to you and Happy Birthing!
