Each person's pregnancy and birthing experience is unique, and they deserve the right people to support them during their pregnancy and birth. A midwife can help expectant parents navigate the many decisions involved in bringing a child into the world, from prenatal care options to birthing plans. But how do you know that choosing a midwife is right for you? Here are some key benefits of having a midwife at your side throughout pregnancy, labor, and delivery.
Prenatal care is an essential part of a healthy pregnancy experience. Regular prenatal appointments track the fetus's development, monitor the pregnant patient's health, and help them prepare for birth. Midwives specialize in providing individualized care that focuses on the holistic well-being of both the parent and the baby.
Unlike traditional obstetricians, midwives often spend more time with their patients and patients' partners during appointments, exploring their birthing goals and developing a detailed delivery plan. This additional time allows them to form a deeper connection and understanding of the patient's unique needs and preferences, such as where the patient wants to give birth and whether they want a natural birth experience.
Another benefit of using a midwife for pregnancy and delivery is that they stay with the patient from the start of labor to the end of the birthing process. While obstetricians may not be present for the full labor experience, the midwife stays by the patient's side. They help the patient listen to their body and recommend different positions to aid delivery and relieve patient discomfort.
Additionally, midwives can often prescribe labor-inducing medications or epidurals as needed. However, they typically do not rely on these medical interventions as often as traditional physicians, as they encourage a more holistic approach to childbearing and birth.
According to a 2019 study published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology, pregnant patients with a low-risk birth who chose a midwife during their labor and delivery are likely to experience fewer interventions and complications than if attended by an obstetrician. The patients in this study were less likely to have artificial rupture of membranes, labor induction, episiotomy, and use of vacuum or forceps. First-time parents had about a 30 percent lower risk of an emergency cesarean delivery. In comparison, those who had previously given birth had a 40 percent lower chance of emergency cesareans compared to those who were attended by an obstetrician.
Many new parents only have one postpartum medical appointment six weeks after having their baby. However, pregnancy, labor, and delivery can cause a lot of change and stress in a short amount of time. This stress is also heightened when learning to care for a newborn and adjusting to a parent's life, especially for first-time parents.
Midwives prioritize the new parents' physical and mental health after they give birth. Following the birthing process, the midwife will continue to check in with the patient and their partner. They may offer breastfeeding and lactation support, as well as recommendations for healthy living as the patient recovers from giving birth.
Midwives prioritize expectant parents' health and well-being at every step, from pregnancy to the weeks after giving birth. While it is important to consult an obstetrician, having a midwife by your side during your pregnancy, labor, and delivery can make the process a more holistic and personalized experience. Call our office to learn more about our midwife services.
Request an appointment here: https://eckhardtobgyn.com or call Donald Eckhardt Jr., M.D. , Kari Eckhardt W.H.N.P., C.N.M. at (346) 201-4716 for an appointment in our Tomball office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Midwife in Tomball, TX.
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