I
was first drawn to midwifery
because of the philosophy behind its practice. At its heart, the philosophy
of midwifery assumes that birth is a safe, beautiful and normal process.
Midwives know that pregnant and birthing women are not sick, that
birth is not inherently dangerous, and that new babies are no where
safer than in their mother's care. Midwives
respect pregnancy and birth as an important, pivotal event in a woman's
life; women remember what happened and what was said during the birth
of their child for the rest of their days. Babies too, are unconsciously
affected by their birth experience, even into their adult lives. In order
for a pregnant woman and her child to have a peaceful birth experience
and the respect which they are entitled, the mother must have an attendant
who truly listens to her and honors her choices. Midwives are present
for the purpose of offering their experience and encouragement, not to
command the birthing woman through the process of birth. It is in the
mode of midwifery that women and babies, pregnancy and birth are nurtured
and treated with respect.
My practice revolves around these ideals of midwifery care. I am continually energized by the notion that women can help other women give birth in their own homes, without cutting, without drugs, in their own time. My goal in midwifery practice is to provide individualized, nurturing, and flexible care that promotes natural birth and a healthy mother and child. Partnership with expecting parents is facilitated by the practice of informed consent. I assist women and their partners in deciding what is best for themselves; in the comfort and familiarity of their own home. I will spend time to get to know your family and learn your emotional health and needs. Knowing my clients is just as important as knowing my practice. Familiarity with you and your family enhances my ability to meet your needs during your pregnancy.
Flexibility is also a must with pregnancy and birth. You are changing as your baby is growing; labor and birth are dynamic events. I am flexible in order to meet your needs and desires and the needs of the situation. I also keep my practice flexible by keeping my fees as low as possible, conducting prenatal visits either in your home or at my Goshen home office and taking only a few clients due each month. In this way, I hope to be a resource in this wonderful and demanding time in the life of your family.