Pregnancy is a lot of things. It’s life-changing, exciting, nerve-wracking, and personal. It’s been part of the human experience since the beginning, but it’s also a medical condition.
Everyone’s pregnancy journey is unique, and those seeking a more holistic experience might consider support from a midwife.
At Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, in Hastings and Grand Island, Nebraska, our team includes OB/GYNs and certified nurse midwives (CNMs) so we can better meet the needs of the community we serve.
Here, we share reasons to consider a midwife during or after pregnancy.
Our certified nurse midwives are nurse practitioners with advanced training in managing pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care, providing the guidance and support you need. They also provide primary care services.
CNMs are skilled health care providers who take a holistic approach to patient care, focusing on your whole health, not just your pregnancy. If you’re looking for a supportive partner to guide you through your pregnancy experience, consider a midwife.
A low-risk pregnancy means there are no current complications or health concerns that affect you or the baby. Most pregnancies in the United States fall into this category.
A midwife makes the perfect choice for low-risk pregnancies, providing holistic care to keep you and your baby well. Our midwives offer all of the prenatal services you need, including setting regular office visits and ordering ultrasounds and glucose tolerance tests.
If complications arise during your pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, you may need to see an OB/GYN for care. Our team of doctors and midwives work together so we can provide continuous expert pregnancy care.
A birth plan is an outline of what you want for your labor and delivery. It’s OK if you don’t have a birth plan, but some people have very specific ideas in mind.
A midwife is a good choice for a nonhospital pregnancy plan. If your pregnancy is low risk and you want to deliver at home, have a water delivery, or have specific people in the delivery room with you, consider working with a midwife.
Do you want a natural vaginal delivery? Are you concerned about using pain medications during childbirth?
Many people elect to have a midwife for their pregnancy because they want a natural delivery without pain medication. A midwife teaches you breathing exercises to manage pain during delivery so you don’t need meds. Statistically, midwives are far less likely to recommend pain medication during delivery than doctors.
Breastfeeding can be challenging for a lot of mothers after birth. If you’re struggling to nurse your baby and need help, our midwives are here for you.
They can check the position of the baby and evaluate how well they latch on to the nipple. Then, they teach you techniques to improve positioning for better comfort and latching. They also go over common breastfeeding issues — such as engorgement or low milk supply — and how to manage them.
You want a holistic approach and a natural delivery, but you feel a little anxious about the what-if scenarios that may happen during delivery, like prolonged labor or problems with the umbilical cord.
Our OB/GYNs and CNMs work as a team and can accommodate all of your wishes and plans for your pregnancy and make sure you get the medical care you need to manage any unexpected events.
If you’re considering a midwife during or after pregnancy and still have questions or concerns, give our office a call or request an appointment online. We can talk to you about our services and our pregnancy wishes and come up with a plan that keeps you healthy and happy.
