As a mother of five children, a women’s counselor, a childbirth educator, a montrice (labor support specialist) and a midwife, my philosophy of life (and midwifery) is based on the belief that one must become 'involved' to 'evolve'; be that physical health, mental health, or spiritual growth.
I believe everyone can choose and help to manifest a better way of life for themselves and their family. Through encouragement and education every 'mom' can understand the principles of good health and prenatal care and become a co-creator in the evolution of the best possible birth experience for herself and her baby.
Together we will seek to prevent the occurrence of complications during your pregnancy and birth that would necessitate a change in your plans to give birth at home or at a birth center. This process begins initially with a screening process designed to "risk" out those women, who for health or other reasons are not well suited for a home or birth center birth.
Then, throughout your pregnancy, we will strive to provide you, your family and your baby with the best opportunity for the uncomplicated, family-centered birth you desire. This goal is best achieved through excellent nutrition, prenatal care and childbirth preparation. I am prepared to guide you in your efforts in these areas.
If for some reason, at any time, you are not a suitable candidate for home or birth center birth, I may still be able to provide services and support in obtaining the best possible birth for you in a hospital setting. We can discuss this issue in more detail, should it arise.
If at any time during your pregnancy you should require any service I cannot provide, i.e., sonograms, additional lab studies, consultation with a physician, I'll refer you to an appropriate provider or, of course, you may select your own physician. Such referral, in most cases, does not mean that your plans for a home birth must change. Most often we can obtain the additional information and support needed in order to continue your care.