+outcomes associated with midwifery care

Decades of research show that outcomes of care provided by certified nurse-midwives compare favorably to care provided by physicians. In recent studies, multiple outcomes were examined comparing care provided by certified nurse-midwives and physician colleagues. The results determined that women cared for by CNMs of the same risk status that were cared for by physicians had lower cesarean birth rates, lower rates of labor induction and augmentation, significant reduction in the number of third and fourth degree perineal tears, lower epidural usage, and higher breastfeeding rates

+waterbirth

Immersion in a deep pool of water during labor eases stress, provides deep relaxation, and greatly relieves pain. Many women find that the calming environment of the birth center, the freedom of movement, and the continuous support that they receive from their midwives is just what they need to achieve a peaceful, natural delivery.Studies show that hydrotherapy and water immersion during labor may reduce pain, length of labor, improve satisfaction with the birth experience, and may decrease the likelihood of tearing. Research shows there is not an increased risk of infection, or any differences in the baby’s transition after birth for women who labor in water during the first stage of labor..

+delayed cord clamping

Studies have found that delayed cord clamping can have a positive effect on babies. These benefits include an increase in placental transfusion, a 60% increase of RBCs and a 30% increase in neonatal blood volume.Another advantage of delayed cord clamping is the decreased risk of iron deficiency anemia. By performing DCC, an additional 40 to 50 mg/kg of iron transfers to the newborn, which reduces the risk of the baby suffering from the severe side effects associated with iron deficiency..

+nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide labor analgesia is safe pain relief option for the mother and baby. It is simple to administer, does not interfere with the release and function of endogenous oxytocin, and has no adverse effects on the normal physiology and progress of labor. Mothers who use Nitrous Oxide during labor reported more satisfaction and decreased anxiety. All of our hospital facilities offer Nitrous Oxide during labor.

+mobility & nutrition during labor

Research documents that when women labor in less restrictive environments and move about while consuming nutrition during labor, they have shorter labors without other differences in health outcomes. Research data also suggests that women are more satisfied with their labor and birth when food and movement are allowed. At Midwife+co we encourage movement and food intake during labor for our moms who are considered low risk.

+upright position for birth

Researchers believe that giving birth in an upright position can benefit the mother and baby for several physiologic reasons.  Physiologic refers to a healthy body’s normal function. In an upright position, gravity can help bring the baby down and out. Also, when someone is upright to give birth, there is less risk of compressing the mother’s aorta, which means there is a better oxygen supply to the baby. Upright positioning also helps the uterus contract more strongly and can shorten the amount of time pushing. At Midwife+Co, the midwives often encourage pushing in an upright position that is comfortable for the mother.

+doula for labor support

There is an abundance of research that supports the benefits of using a doula to help manage the pain of labor and birth. And out of all the ways to mange labor pain, using a doula seems like one of the most important. Doulas provide physical support, emotional support, childbirth preparation and advocacy – all of which can help decrease pain. The Midwife+Co midwives often encourage using a doula. We have resources available to our families about how to choose a doula.