shannon

My daughter Shannon

 

My Philosophy of Care

 

  • It is an honor and a privilege to be included in families birth experiences.
  • A baby's life begins at conception. How women care for themselves and are cared for prenatal has a profound impact on both pregnancy and birth.
  • Pregnancy and birth are life changing events that have far reaching consequences. Family centered Midwifery care can positively impact family unity and parenting.
  • Pregnancy is a blessing and a state of health. Creating a safe and loving environment with people chosen by the family allows birth to proceed normally.
  • Families choose birth at home for many different reasons. Midwifery care looks at each family respectfully, as individuals.
  • I offer education, information, guidance and support. I offer family centered Midwifery care by supporting the decisions that families make.
  • I believe that parents are ultimately responsible for their pregnancies, births and children. As such they have both the right and responsibility to become informed and knowledgeable as a couple, that they may share together in the decision making.
  • I believe in self directed pushing and not coached pushing. This is where the mom pushes when she feels the urge and not told to push to the count of ten.
  • You and your partner are encouraged to "catch" your own baby - bringing the miracle of your creation full circle.
  • I support and utilize many non-pharmacutical methods of pain relief such as the use of water, massage, hot/cold packs, TENS, homeopathy,music, and relaxation techniques. I will dicuss these complimentary therapies with you as we travel through your pregnancy journey.
  • I have a strictly limited caseload to ensure you receive professional, efficient, and friendly  care.

 

 

 

 

The Essence of Midwifery

by Linda V. Walsh, CNM, MPH

 

He who uttered the words, "Routine Delivery"

Or hastily wrote "Normal Spontaneous Delivery" as one further procedure in a busy day

Could'nt have really been with her.

 

He couldn't have been

Or he would have felt her muscles as they

 

worked

strained

pushed

 

that infant into the world.

 

He couldn't have been

Or he would have truly felt her perspiration weep from her body as she

reached for her strengh deep within

 

No, he couldn't have really been with her

 

If he were, he would have appreciated her expression as it changed from

excitement, to concentration, to fear, and to excitement and peace.

 

He couldn't have held her,

Whispering

 

"You're almost there"

"You're doing so beautifully"

"You are so strong"

 

Routine delivery.

 

He couldn't have been there

He couldn't have taken the time

to pause in awe and wonder

as that little head came slowly, ever so slowly,

and the eyes opened and looked out with such trust and wisdom.

 

Procedure-normal spontaneous delivery.

 

He couldn't have marveled as she reached down, drawing her daughter to her breast

Laughing, shouting, crying-all the emotions of birth.

 

No, he couldn't have been with her.

 

For she who has been with woman knows there is no routine birth, and that delivery is not a procedure.

 

Being with woman is opening up,

 

sharing,

loving,

caring.

 

Being with woman is truly being a midwife.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DISCLAIMER

The information contained on this website is of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. The information is not meant to replace the recommendations or advise of your midwife or doctor.