How to Choose the Right Midwife for You

The processes of pregnancy, labor, and delivery are extremely personal and memorable to a woman. As such, it is important to surround yourself with professionals who not only know what they’re doing, but are supportive, comforting, and truly advocate...

If you are pregnant, you may wish to consider getting a midwife. Midwives are health professionals who assist women during the process of childbearing. Midwives can deliver babies at home, at birthing centers, or at hospitals, depending on the mother’s preference. Most midwives work closely with medical doctors, such as obstetricians, to care for and support patients.

Let’s talk about some of the key benefits of partnering with a midwife for your pregnancy and childbirth, and where you can go in DeKalb County for an outstanding midwifery program that’s best for you.

How Can I Benefit from Having a Midwife?

Midwives offer a lot more than simply delivering your baby. Here are just some of the ways in which a midwife can support you before, during, and after pregnancy:

Perform prenatal exams
Order diagnostic testing, such as ultrasound
Monitor and track physical and psychological health through the pregnancy
Monitor, track, and advise on nutrition, exercise, and more
Educate you on pregnancy, labor, delivery, and caring for a newborn
Provide emotional support during pregnancy and labor
Deliver your baby

Finding the Right Midwife

Level of Support – One way to ensure you have a comfortable, memorable, and enjoyable pregnancy, labor, and delivery experience is to work with a midwife who fits your needs and preferences. Some women prefer their midwife to have certain social skills, flexibilities, and specific specialties. For instance, you may want a midwife who has ample time to frequently meet and speak with you throughout your pregnancy.
On the other hand, a mother-to-be may prefer a midwife during important milestones only, such as during the third trimester, labor, and delivery. As such, it is important to find a midwife who offers the level of support you desire, and is not overbearing.
Certification – Calling oneself a midwife doesn’t necessarily require being certified. Some midwives have no formal certification or licensing. Instead, they only have apprenticeship or informal training experience. These midwives are known as lay midwives.
In the interest of the health and safety of you and your baby, it is highly recommended that you select a midwife who has been certified. Certified midwives have completed a medical midwifery education program and passed a formal exam. This requires rigorous education and hands-on experience. A certified midwife offers a high standard of safety, education, and experience that a lay midwife may not.

Experienced Midwives in Decatur, Stonecrest, and Stone Mountain, GA

At Dekalb Women’s Specialists Gynecological & Obstetrical Care, our talented OB/GYN providers can work closely with certified midwives to provide compassionate care and support to pregnant women who would like to partner with a midwife. We take a patient-centered approach to women’s healthcare, and we provide medical care and support for every stage of a woman’s life.

To find out more about our OB/GYN services or to book an appointment, call us today at (404) 508-2000 or you can book an appointment via our online form. We have three convenient offices in which to serve you, in Decatur, Stonecrest, and Stone Mountain, Georgia. We look forward to seeing you!