What does holistic midwifery care look like?

Holistic midwifery care is care for the whole person and takes into consideration the well being of mind, body and soul of both mom and baby. It combines traditional midwifery practices, nutritional counseling, natural remedies, movement and alignment, and the wise use of modern medicine and tools to bring wellbeing and balance throughout the childbearing journey.

What area do you serve?

I serve a one hour radius from my office in New Market, TN. This includes the counties of Knox, Blount, Jefferson, Hamblen, Sevier, Cocke, Greene, Hawkins, Hamblen, Anderson, Claiborne, Campbell, Union, Roane, Grainger, and Loudon.

How many clients do you typically take per month?

I typically get to welcome two new little people into the world a month and sometimes three. I prefer to keep the number of mamas and babies I serve small.

When should I start midwifery care?

I love to start prenatal care with my clients early in their pregnancies. Getting good nutrition and the right supplements early can make such a difference in how you feel through your first trimester, as well as, positively effect your health throughout your pregnancy. I also enjoy helping women with pre-conception counseling, so don’t hesitate to reach out even before having a positive test. If you are considering changing to a midwifery care and home birth later in your pregnancy, I’m happy to talk with you about what that can look like too!

What does prenatal care with a midwife look like?

If you are used to typical OB appointments, prenatal care with a midwife will look much different for you. Our visits usually last about an hour and include talking about how you are feeling, addressing any concerns you may have, and discussing Informed Choice Decisions that are coming up at various choice points in your pregnancy. We also take your vitals and check in on baby. Midwives use their hands to palpate and feel where baby’s position is which is my favorite part of a prenatal visit and one which moms usually really enjoy too. My goal in each prenatal is to center the care on what best meets your individual and unique needs.

Do you offer lab testing? Can I get an ultrasound?

Yes, your basic lab testing is included in your prenatal care and any additional testing you may need or want is offered at a discounted rate. I can also refer you to get an ultrasound and that cost is covered either by your insurance or is out of pocket.

Do you supply the birth kit? What do you bring to a birth?

Yes, I supply a birth kit for you at your home visit that includes the disposable items you will need at your birth. The kit also has some labor support items you can use throughout your labor like a rebozo, TENS unit, fan, birthing combs and more. When I arrive at your home for the birth, I will bring all of my midwifery equipment including (but not limited too) more labor support tools, homeopathic remedies, herbs, medications, IVs and newborn resuscitation equipment.

Do you offer water birth?

Yes, water can be such an amazing tool throughout the labor and birth process. If you are wanting to have a water birth, or even just to labor in the water, I will bring a tub to your home visit for your to have on hand. You just need to provide a clean, new hose for filling it and purchase a tub liner.

Can my children attend the birth?

Yes, I love for births to include the whole family and want your to be able to have the people around you who make you feel secure, supported and safe. It can be an amazing experience for siblings to get to participate in welcoming the new baby into the world.

What is the most common reason for transferring to the hospital? Will my midwife come with me if I transfer to the hospital?

The most common reason for transferring to the hospital is non-emergent and due to a mom deciding she needs some pharmaceutical pain relief. Whether the transport is emergent or non-emergent, the the midwife always seeks, as much as possible, to stay with the client and provide continuity of care and support. Home birth midwives do not have hospital privileges and after the transfer their role changes from primary provider to that of a support person.

What type of pain relief is available at my home birth?

Movement, breathing, and relaxation techniques are all amazing tools in helping to handle the intense sensations of labor. Being submerged in water, using a TENS Unit, and birthing combs are also great resources. We do not offer pharmaceutical pain relief at a home birth, but do offer education and support as you prepare prenatally for your natural birth.

Can you preform any tests for the baby right after birth? Do you administer medications to the baby after birth like they do in the hospital?

Yes, the midwife does a complete newborn exam after the birth including weighing and measuring the baby. At your first postpartum visit, the Newborn Screening tests or refusal forms are available for parent’s. Midwives also offer Vitamin K injections for baby based on the parent’s choice.

How will I get a birth certificate and SSN for my baby?

Your midwife can file your birth certificate for you and you can opt to get the SSN then. You will be given an order form to request a copy of your birth certificate via the mail or it can be printed at your local health department.

How long will you stay in my home after the birth?

The midwife will stay at your home until both mom and baby are stable and settled into bed ready for a nap. This is at least two hours, but sometimes more.

What does postpartum care look like with you as my midwife?

Postpartum care is so important to me as your midwife. Your childbearing journey does not end just because baby has come. I offer postpartum visits through six weeks which usually includes a visit at a day or two postpartum, one week postpartum, two weeks postpartum, and six weeks postpartum. All postpartum visits, except for your six week visit, happen in your home.