In order to bring affordable, quality, professional care to our clients, we operate using the “group practice” model. This means you will have the opportunity to meet with all 3 midwives in the collective during the prenatal period, and 2 of the midwives will attend your homebirth. Here is a step-by-step explanation of how our care model works.
Interview
Please contact us to set up a time to meet with 2 (or more, depending on our availability) of our midwives so that we can get to know each other, you can ask questions, and get a feel for care with the collective.
Prenatal Care
If you decide to hire PMC for your care, give us a call to set up your initial prenatal.
The PMC conducts prenatal exams at our office on Thursdays from 9 to 3. You will see us once a month from start of care to 28 weeks, every 2 weeks from 28 to 36 weeks, and weekly from 36 weeks until you deliver. There will be one home visit at your home at the 36 week appointment to bring you a complimentary birth kit with all consumable supplies, be sure you have all your supplies (towels, diapers, etc.), and are ready for your homebirth.
Transfers
PMC will accept transfer of care clients up until 28 weeks pregnant. Records of prior prenatal care will need to be provided to the practice.
The Birth
You will be attended by a team of 2 midwives and possibly 1 student at your birth. Your birth team will stay with your through your active labor offering assistance and support. After the birth we will stay for 2-3 hours, longer if necessary. We will assess you for bleeding, tearing, and assist with breastfeeding as needed. The baby will be given a thorough assessment and exam. By the time your team leaves, everything will be clean and tidy and the family tucked into bed for a nap.
Postpartum
One of the midwives who attended your birth will return between day 1 and 2 after your birth to assess both mother and baby. At this appointment both a CCHD (pulse oximetry) and Newborn Screen will be performed for the baby. Another home visit between days 4 and 5 will assess breastfeeding along with mom and baby, and at this point a referral to a pediatrician will be given. Office visits through 6 weeks postpartum will conclude your care.