Midwife
You will want to find the perfect midwife so think about interviewing a few midwives. Many women who have used a midwife say that they knew right away if the midwife they were interviewing was the right personality match. During your search for the right midwife pay attention to your gut feelings as well as your logical side. More than likely the midwife that you choose will become a life long friend. To make your search for a midwife a little easier here are some questions to bring along to your interview.
Questions to ask a Midwife
What are your general beliefs about pregnancy and birth?
What is your education and training as a midwife?
How long have your been a midwife?
How many clients have you had during your career?
Do you work with a team of midwives?
Do you have any clients who I can talk to about their experience with you as their midwife?
How many clients will you take that are due in the same month?
What does your prenatal care look like? (How often? What procedures?)
Do you have any requirements for me? (i.e. childbirth class, any reading, etc)
How do you handle complications during labor and delivery?
What complications would you recommend transporting to a hospital?
How many of your clients have had to go to the hospital? And for what reasons?
What items will you bring to my birth?
What supplies will I need to provide?
What is your knowledge and experience with water births?
Do you provide a birthing tub or will I have to purchase one?
What is your position on breastfeeding?
What is your position on circumcision?
Will you examine the baby after birth?
Do you offer any postpartum care? If so, how often and what procedures?
What are your fees and what do they include?
What payment arrangements do you make?
Are your services covered by my insurance company?
What do you love most about being a midwife?
What do you like least about being a midwife?