Gaia Midwifery P.C.
"Childbirth with Choice"
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What can I expect from a midwife's care during my pregnancy that is different from what I would have with a doctor?
A: A midwife's training is focused on the normalcy of pregnancy and childbirth. We emphasize health promotion as the best means of keeping your pregnancy normal.
We provide comprehensive prenatal care designed to monitor your health and that of your developing baby. During your labor we provide continuous hands-on assistance, which often minimizes technological interventions. We evaluate your progress and offer emotional and physical support along the way. If you should need narcotic pain relief or an epidural, we can order that as well.
Immediately after the baby is born we will examine and evaluate the newborn, provide advice on how to initiate breastfeeding and promote the bonding of you and your baby.
Q: How safe is midwifery?
A: Numerous studies have uniformly concluded that midwifery care has outcomes that are at least equal to that of doctors with the same type of patients. Midwives are adept at providing care that helps women prevent complications.
A study published in Nov.'96 issue of the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology concluded the following:
Outcome
MidwifeDoctor
MidwifeDoctorBreastfed at delivery91.7%82.2%
91.7%82.2%Rooming in of infant26.3%14.2%
26.3%14.2%Postpartum Hemorrhage 14.2%25.2%
14.2%25.2%Major Perineal laceration6.6% 23.3%
6.6% 23.3%Postpartum infection3.6% 5.9%
3.6% 5.9%Q: How does a midwife handle a complication?
A: Midwives independently manage the care of essentially normal healthy women and their newborns. All midwives have a written agreement with a physician providing for any necessary consultation, collaboration, referral or emergency medical coverage.
Q: Are midwives covered by insurance?
A: YES. In New York State, you may obtain direct access to a midwife by law (no referral needed).
All managed care companies must cover midwives for obstetrical and gynecological care or must pay for midwifery out of network.
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Discover the Difference a Midwife Makes !
