So how do you get a midwife?

[jandumm]

Sorry to ask....but what's a doula? Is it similar to a midwife?

http://www.doulacare.ca/whatisadoula.cfm

"A doula is someone who provides non-clinical support and care to a woman (and her partner) during childbirth."

Not a midwife or a doctor - a non-medical person who provides support - emotional and practical - to a woman before, during and after childbirth and during the post partum period.

I think of mine as a labour coach/baby expert - she's seen labour a lot more than me (never) and can provide us with information on our options

[Syne]

Looks like some of you guys are having a... midwife crisis

[deathblow]

Midwife's are great, our 2nd was delivered by a midwife, she was born at 4am and we were home by 10am.
Our 3rd will also be delivered by a midwife.

You'd think this tool would at least keep the poor baby's neck straight!

Speaking of midwives, here's a Macleans story that was published a few months ago.

Meet Canada's First Male Midwife



It got me thinking, would you accept a male midwife?

[Too itchy]

Would it be too late to get a doula or midwife if the wife is a month away from giving birth?

[PianoGuy]

It would quite possibly be too late to get a midwife at 8 months pregnant, however there is certainly no harm in trying. People move away or need to switch to an OB for whatever reason and it couldn't hurt to call and ask.

It may be easier to get a doula. Since doulas are not typically covered by health insurance, they're in lower demand because fewer people can afford them.

[Catherine111]

Hmm..Choosing a midwife is an important step in your prenatal process since your comfort with the individual. And you need to be sure about your midwife since she'll be with you for one of the most intimate, powerful, and emotional experiences of your life. So you should do your research. Ask friends and family for recommendations, ask your local homebirth association or contact your local branch of the of Midwives. Be sure you are comfortable with her, her communication style, and her willingness to listen to your concerns and work with you and your family.

[PianoGuy]

In a perfect world, I would love to take your advice. My plan for my next child is to apply to every single midwife in driving distance and hope for the best.

[canadiankorean]

Looks like some of you guys are having a... midwife crisis

Lol