Frequently Asked Questions
What is a midwife?
A midwife is a trained health professional who supports and cares for women/pregnant individuals during pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period. Midwives provide personalized care, focusing on natural birth processes and minimizing medical interventions when possible.
What services do you offer?
I offer a range of services including prenatal care, home birth, postpartum care, annual exams, well-woman exams, and well-body exams. We also provide trauma-informed care and support for breastfeeding.
What area do you serve?
I serve a large radius covering Eastern Kentucky and the surrounding areas. I typically keep to a 2 hour radius of Pikeville, but message me and we'll see what we can do!
Are you licensed?
Yes, I am a Licensed Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) in the state of Kentucky. When I have clients in Virginia and Tennessee I will get licensed in those states as well.
What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?
A midwife is a medical professional trained to provide clinical care during pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum. Midwives perform medical tasks such as monitoring the baby's health, managing labor, and delivering the baby. A doula, on the other hand, provides non-medical support such as emotional, physical, and informational assistance during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Doulas focus on comfort measures, advocacy, and continuous support but do not perform medical tasks.
What are the benefits of a home birth?
Home births allow for a more personalized and comfortable birthing experience. Benefits include reduced risk of interventions, increased ability to move freely, more control over the birth environment, and immediate bonding with your baby.
Is home birth safe?
Yes, for low-risk pregnancies, home birth is a safe option. Research has shown that planned home births with a qualified midwife are as safe as hospital births for low-risk women.
What happens if there is an emergency during a home birth?
Certified Professional Midwives are trained in out of hospital births. We bring all necessary equipment to your home. If a transfer to a hospital is needed, we have protocols in place to ensure a smooth and quick transfer.
What can I expect during prenatal visits?
Prenatal visits include comprehensive assessments, health education, nutritional guidance, and emotional support. We will monitor your baby's growth and your health, addressing any concerns you may have.
How often will I have a prenatal visit?
Typically, prenatal visits are scheduled monthly until 28 weeks, bi-weekly until 36 weeks, and then weekly until birth. However, this schedule can be adjusted based on your individual needs.
What kind of postpartum care do you provide?
Postpartum care includes regular check-ups to monitor your recovery, support for breastfeeding, newborn care education, and emotional support. We will visit you at home to ensure you and your baby are doing well.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book an appointment by calling us at 276-325-2556, emailing us at midwifemary@canarynestmidwifery.com, or through our website, www.canarynestmidwifery.com/book-online
Do you offer a sliding scale?
Yes, we believe in accessible care for all and offer sliding scale fees and financial assistance. Please reach out to discuss your financial needs.
How can I stay updated with your services and events?
Follow us on Facebook for our live talk sessions every Thursday, and check out our podcast debuting on April Fools' Day. We also share regular updates and educational content on our social media channels.
FAQ
DO I NEED TO SEE A DOCTOR FOR PRENATAL CARE?
Most midwives offer comprehensive care throughout the stages of pregnancy, delivery, and the initial weeks following childbirth. In the midwifery model, prenatal care encompasses the same clinical components as obstetric care, such as using a doppler or fetoscope to monitor the baby's heartbeat and check the blood pressure. Additionally, it involves taking the time to understand your health and establishing a rapport while addressing all of your inquiries.
In certain circumstances, such as requiring antibiotic treatment for a urinary tract infection (UTI), clients may need to consult a physician. If any clinical situations arise that necessitate the attention of an obstetrician or pediatrician, our care includes recognizing these instances and promptly referring you to the appropriate specialist.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MIDWIFE AND A DOULA?
A midwife is a trained medical professional who specializes in out-of-hospital births. On the other hand, a doula serves as a birth companion. Although these two roles complement each other effectively, they each have distinct responsibilities throughout the childbearing years.
HOW MUCH DO HOME BIRTHS COST?
The usual expenses associated with a homebirth range from $3,500 to $4,000, varying depending on several factors such as:
- Proximity to your location
- Any supplementary services requested
- Potential costs for ultrasound and lab work, considering insurance coverage
I would be more than willing to discuss and arrange a payment plan that suits your needs. Please don't hesitate to consider this option, ensuring that finances do not hinder your decision.