As many as 7.4 percent of moms-to-be chose midwives for their births in 2006, reports "Fit Pregnancy" magazine. If you're considering a midwife for your birth, the midwife-mother relationship may be one of the factors influencing your decision. Understanding the details of that relationship can help you make the birth choice that's right for you.
Identification
Midwives intentionally develop strong relationships with their patients, focusing on the woman as well as her developing baby, explains Deanne Williams, executive director of the American College of Nurse Midwives in Washington, D.C., in "Parents" magazine. In addition, midwives encourage partners, friends and other children to attend prenatal visits, creating a feeling of community rather than a clinical medical appointment.
Significance
The emphasis on a prenatal relationship gives expecting moms the power to take the reins of their own pregnancy, explains Jill Cohen, associate editor of "Midwifery Today," in the magazine. Midwives tailor prenatal care, including nutrition, fitness and testing, to each woman, creating a personalized pregnancy experience.
Benefits
An ongoing relationship with your midwife can have significant benefits during labor and delivery, according to "Fit Pregnancy" magazine. Since the midwife has gotten to know you, she can be more effective at coaching you through pushing and supporting you through tough contractions. A midwife is also likely to try to respect your wishes for limited intervention or drug-free birth, since you'll discuss different scenarios in detail during your pregnancy, making it easier for her to predict your needs during labor.
Misconceptions
If you're attracted to the idea of the midwife-mother relationship but want to have your baby in a hospital, don't assume a midwife is out of the question. You don't have to give birth at home or in a birthing center to have a midwife attend your birth. In fact, 96 percent of midwife-attended births in 2001 took place in a hospital, according to "Parents" magazine.
Warning
Keep in mind that your midwife may have to refer you to an obstetrician if you end up having a high-risk pregnancy. If you are pregnant with multiples, develop a pregnancy-related health condition like gestational diabetes or have an infant with a health problem that requires significant fetal monitoring, your midwife may decide that you can get better care from a different kind of professional. If you've built a relationship with your midwife, transitioning to a doctor can be a difficult process.
