Prenatal visits can start as early as 8 weeks, and we follow the typical obstetric schedule: once a month until 28 weeks’ gestation, once every 2 weeks until 36 weeks’ gestation, and then weekly until birth. I take routine labs in my office at the initial appointment to establish a baseline, then at the 28-week appointment, and lastly at the 36-week appointment. I also offer routine obstetric tests such as glucose testing and GBS, if desired. Sonography is not in-house, but I will send a referral if requested. I do require the 20-week ultrasound to ensure that there are not any obvious anomalies that require immediate care after birth. Every appointment (unless you’re paying for all home visits) will be located at my office, but the 36-week appointment will be at your home for me to deliver your birth kit and discuss birth plans. Throughout your prenatal appointments, we will be discussing informed choice and decision-making to ensure you have autonomy and can choose what's best for you and your family.

The day (or night, most likely) has finally arrived, and we are all excited to meet your little one! I will be “on-call” for you from 37 weeks through 42 weeks. My schedule is completely free so that I can be fully available for you and your family. I will bring additional supplies I need for your birth. At your birth, another licensed midwife and I will assist. We are diligent as we monitor both you and your baby throughout labor. Once the baby has arrived and everyone is stable, we patiently wait for the placenta and keep the baby’s cord intact until the cord is completely white and has stopped pulsing. The baby remains with you while we perform the newborn exam at your bedside. The birth team continues to monitor vital signs on both you and your baby throughout the immediate postpartum period. Once everyone is stable and all requirements have been met (i.e., using the restroom, eating, successfully latched, etc.), we tuck you and baby in, pack up, and leave you to sleep.

All postpartum visits will be in the comfort of your home, not at my office (unless previously discussed). The first visit will be 24-48 hours after birth, followed by visits at 1 week, 2 weeks, and 6 weeks after birth. This includes at least four home visits. At those appointments, I will be evaluating both you and your baby. We will offer the newborn metabolic screen and CCHD screen during the first visits, along with a referral for a hearing screen if desired. After your baby is born, I will submit a birth certificate to the state. The last postpartum appointment is a bittersweet moment as we discuss your birth, address any concerns/complaints, and speak about family planning and a well-woman visit.