FAQs

What is a CPM?

A Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) is a knowledgeable, skilled and professional independent midwifery practitioner who has met the standards for certification set by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) and is qualified to provide the Midwives Model of Care. The CPM is the only midwifery credential that requires knowledge about and experience in out-of-hospital settings.

Are you licensed in Texas?

Yes I am a LM (licensed Midwife) in the state of Texas.

What is the Midwives model of care?

The midwives model of care has a foundation in the belief that pregnancy and birth are normal processes, not medical conditions. It follows a low technological intervention, high hands on and educational care plan. The midwives model of care is watchful and identifies women with higher needs for a higher level of obstetrical attention. This woman centered method of care has been shown to decrease the need for medical intervention, especially cesarean section.

Can I have an ultrasound?

Yes. We have quite a few clients who desire an ultrasound for peace of mind or to learn the sex of their baby. Midwives are not anti-technology; we believe in the appropriate use of technology and informed choice. Your pregnancy and birth are yours-we are here to educate you and make it as positive an experience as possible. We are more than happy to order an ultrasound if you want one.

Can I eat and drink during labor?

Of course! Your body is working hard and needs energy. You need to stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids, especially those with nutrients and calories to keep your muscles working effectively. Many women lose their appetite at some point during labor, but you are encouraged to eat light foods if you so desire.

Can I have a vaginal birth if I have had a previous cesarean?

Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) is a safe option for most women. We would love to speak with you to discuss your interest in a VBAC and see if your a good candidate for a VBAC at home. Many VBAC women that are not a good candidate for a home birth can go on to have a VBAC in the hospital.

How do I get a birth certificate and social security card for my baby?

After the birth of your baby we will file your birth certificate electronically. Part of this process also routinely includes applying for a social security number for your child.

What happens in case of an emergency or we have to transfer care?

Evidence shows that statistically, out of hospital birth is safe for healthy, low risk women. Occasionally, problems do arise during pregnancy or labor despite our best efforts, and a consultation or transfer of care to an obstetrician may be recommended. In the event of a transfer of care during pregnancy, we will provide all of the mother's current medical records to the practitioner of her choice. If the transfer is occurring during labor and is not an emergency (ie., prolonged labor, failure to progress), we will provide all relevant information on the mother's current condition and birthing situation to whichever hospital she would prefer to transfer to. In the event of an emergency or a complication arises that is beyond our scope of practice, an ambulance will be called and the mother will be transferred to the nearest hospital. I will accompany you to the hospital and stay for as long as you need me, in general it is 2-4 hours after birth. All midwives and midwifery students hold certifications for basic life support and neonatal resuscitation.

Are my friends and family able to be present for the birth?

Absolutely, we encourage you to have those closest to you present.

Can my older children be involved?

We love including older siblings into prenatal visits and the birth itself. With well-prepared kids, being at a sibling’s birth can be exciting, special and even fun. We really enjoy having siblings at births involved at a level at which both parents and kids are comfortable. Depending on age, it is important that older siblings have someone present at the birth that is there just for them: grandparent, babysitter, or family friend.

Is natural birth with a midwife safe?

Natural labor and birth are simply and beautifully designed with low risk of complications, especially when evidenced-based birth practices are utilized. Midwives are trained to understand the physiological process of birth and are there to protect, support, and promote natural, normal birth.

My baby is breech or I am having twins. Can I still have an out of hospital birth?

Breech and twin births are accepted solely on a case by case basis and client acceptance varies greatly depending on the mother's health and the maternal prenatal history. This is left to the discretion of the midwife and a consultation to discuss the risks prior to acceptance is mandatory. Any clients who are already with Blessed Womb when these situations are discovered will be able to have a discussion with the midwife prior to any decisions being made about birth or transfer of care. This is strictly for the safety of the mother and child(ren).