How Your Midwife Cooperates with Your Pregnancy Team

Are pregnancy and childbirth a team effort? Actually, it can be if you use the services of a certified nurse-midwife and a board-certified OB/GYN. Providing the close monitoring and advocacy many women need and deserve during their pregnancies, midwives can make all the difference in the childbirth experience both before and after your baby arrives.

Let’s discuss who a midwife is, what she does during labor, and where you can find the best nurse-midwife in Decatur, Stonecrest, and Stone Mountain, GA.

What Is a Midwife?

A midwife is a healthcare professional who has specialized training in women’s health needs and goals in their childbearing years, especially those who are (or are contemplating being) pregnant, delivering a child, and breastfeeding. Midwives work in and with OB/GYN physicians to get patients access to specialized care, such as treatment planning for high-risk pregnancies and postpartum complications. They also counsel and promote overall wellness for women and provide direct support during labor and delivery, whether at home, in a birthing center, or hospital.

What Does a Midwife Do?

Particularly during pregnancy and the postpartum period, your midwife will work closely with you–one on one. Together, you will outline your desired goals for delivery, including what kind of anesthesia you may desire and whether or not you wish to have an episiotomy (incisions in the perineum to avoid tears during delivery).

Also, if warranted, your midwife will perform routine examinations at the prescribed intervals, including ultrasound imaging and other diagnostic tests. She can prescribe medications and counsel you on diet and exercise before conception, during pregnancy, and postpartum. A midwife can also guide you through family planning choices after your baby is born.

How Does a Midwife Work with the Rest of the Pregnancy Team?

During labor, your midwife can be your primary coach; if your labor and delivery are uncomplicated, she may deliver or assist in delivering your baby. If medical complications develop, the midwife provides coaching and support, but the obstetrician takes over medical management. Cleveland Clinic reports that if you use a midwife, induced labor and C-section deliveries are far less likely than when using a physician alone.

Best Midwife in the Decatur, Stonecrest, and Stone Mountain, GA

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, Dekalb Women’s Specialists can provide expert care for you and your baby, including a comprehensive range of exceptional midwife services delivered by our team of certified nurse-midwives.

Our CNMs also provide a wide range of primary healthcare services for girls from adolescence onward. These professionals have considerable experience and expertise in general nursing, as well as midwifery, and hold degree-level qualifications and accreditation.

To learn more about the benefits of using a certified nurse-midwife before, during, and after your pregnancy, call Dekalb Women’s Specialists today at (404) 508-2000 or request a consultation now.