Dr's v. Midwives

[Mommabanielle]

Okay, I know some people need to see doctors for their pregnancies and delivery, but I am very interested in giving birth in a birthing facility or at home. My husband is super against doing it at home because the hospital is 20 minutes away. Anyone do a home birth or in a facility? What kinds of questions should you ask when meeting with a midwife?  

[Mrsjenny_]

Of course I'm glad I can help! It's best to educate yourself on it all. It makes it easier to tell the skeptics what's up :). 2 hrs maybe to far but see what they say just in case. Also sometimes just emailing anyone that pops up on google, near or far from where you live can helps you network with another midwife in the area. We moved to Washington when I was 33 weeks and I'm now 37. I emailed tons of people and was lucky to be pointed in the right direction. That's the best part of home/birthing centers everyone is a huge family and always welcoming and willing to help!!! Good luck! :)

[Mommabanielle]

Thank you! I am leaning toward birthing center and the more I tell hubby about it, the more supportive he becomes. He's just a worrier ;) I have found a place in interested in but it is 2 1/2 hours away. I am still early in the pregnancy so I am planning a visit soon. Thanks for your suggestions about questions to ask, it helps a lot.

[Mrsjenny_]

Also forgot to mention that this time around I will be giving birth in Washington. Which my insurance will cover and the state highly recognizes midwife's in an LLC/ own practice. It's a lot to take it but doing google research maybe your best bet.

[Mrsjenny_]

I did a home birth and planning on doing another. One thing is for sure, you and your partner must be on the same page about this or else it won't be as "fun" for a better lack of words. If he's not comfortable it maybe worth looking into a birthing center. I think the number one question everyone asks is what to do in a emergency. Which if any educated midwife should know at that point it's hospital time. Ask what type of supplies they will bring typically it should be oxygen things for hemoraging...the list should consist of things most crash carts at an ER should have. Also see if they are licensed and registered. Depending on the state, each has it's own rules and regulation. An even some states a lot of insurances cover home/ birthing centers. For instance, I have birth in hawaii the first time. They don't recognize midwife's outside of the hospital but my midwife was licensed and registers through the state and was also a Naturpathic doctor. (An ND instead of a MD) same amount if not more schooling but different name. Make sure you feel comfortable with the person as well.
I hope this helps...