Considering home birth and midwife, first baby--help!

[nicem815]

Hi all!
My husband and I are pregnant with our first little one. I had a hellish time trying to get appointments with doctors in my area. I am waiting on health insurance (We just moved, just got married, waiting on verification....it's a process) and some doctors won't even let us go and pay out of pocket! Thankfully, I found one that will work for us so I can at least get my first visit, pap smear, blood work, etc.

However, that being said, the whole process has been so stressful for me when it comes to doctors. The offices are so not supportive or kind. I have heard of midwives being far more gentle and caring and I would prefer a more personalized approach!

How does one go about finding a midwife?

Do you still go to see a doctor for visits if you are planning on having the baby with a midwife at home?

How does one prepare for a water birth?

Do you recommend natural birth for 1st time moms?

Thanks for any tips you may have!

Btw, I am a healthy and active 28 year old woman.

 

[Feronia]

Check out a list of CPMs and CNMs in your area and contact them directly. It's great to meet with a few before deciding!

No, midwives are your primary maternity care providers if you go this route. You don't see a doctor at all unless you become high risk and need additional assessment.

I'm having my second water birth, and preparation really involves buying a pool, liner (if applicable), lead-free hose, and having lots of towels and cheap shower curtains nearby. That's it, really. You just fill it up when you go into labour and enjoy! It really is amazing!

There's no reason at all for a first time mom not to have a home birth, a water birth, or a natural birth in general. I had my first at home and will have my second at home, too.

Best of luck finding a midwife! I wouldn't go with anyone else!

 

[Fallon]

I'm also expecting my first and decided to go with a midwife for the reasons you stated. We looked online for "midwife in Las Vegas" and searched websites until we found a few we liked. Called a few and met with one last night. She was great and so easy going yet professional. We aren't even meeting with another because she is right for us.

I'm so glad we are going this route and not to a sterile rush rush doctors office.

Our midwife will do all prenatal visits and 6 post postpartum visits. Is a lactation specialist and has nurse training which is a plus. Her services include more than I imagined and her rate is $3,600. My aunt had a baby in the hospital 2 years ago and even with insurance she had to pay $9000, plus her OB appts. So, the wonderful care mixed with a wonderful price, it's just all around the way to go if you ask me.

She has a birthing pool that she rents for $150. We set it up and she takes it down. She said we could hire someone outside to set it up and it would be $350-$600. She also has a birthing kit you buy with all the sterile items needed for birth and then gives you a list of things to have on hand, like bowls and towels etc. They really so cover everything!I was pleasantly surprised.

Good luck finding your perfect midwife!

 

[nicem815]

Thank you both for that information. It helps me so much! I have my first intake visit today and I need bloodwork, but after that I am highly considering switching as long I am not deemed high risk.

Thank you so much ladies!