Is there a charge for Midwifery Care?

There is no fee charged for midwifery care. Midwifery care, including prenatal, birth and postpartum care, is paid for by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.

 

Where can I have my baby?

Midwives offer you the choice of a home or hospital birth. Whichever setting you choose, you and your baby will receive comprehensive and safe care. 
 

 

What is the difference between a doula and a midwife?

A birth doula is a trained labour support person who provides emotional and physical support to a labouring woman and her partner. While she is not a medical professional, she can offer a wide range of comfort measures during labour - from massage to aromatherapy to continuous reassurance and coping techniques.

A midwife, on the other hand, is a trained primary caregiver who provides care to women throughout their low risk pregnancy, labour and birth, and provide care to both mother and baby during the first six weeks following the birth. Like a doula, she too provides emotional and physical support to a labouring woman and her partner, but also is able to tend to the low risk medical needs of healthy pregnant woman. When you choose a midwife, you have the choice of giving birth in either a home or hospital setting.

 

Can I have a Midwife and a Doctor?

You can have either a midwife or a doctor for your pregnancy, birth and newborn care. Midwives, obstetricians and family physicians are all considered primary care providers. A primary care provider takes sole responsibility for your care. Having two caregivers is viewed as a duplication of health care services.

 

Why would I choose a midwife instead of a doctor as my primary care provider?

Many women find the comfort of having a midwife with them throughout their whole pregnancy and six weeks post-partum invaluable. Midwives are on-call and available to their clients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. With a midwife, pregnant women and their families make decisions that are based on informed choice.

 

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 Midwifery Frequently Asked Questions 

When should I contact a midwife?

As the demand for midwives is larger than the number of midwives available, it is best to contact a midwife as soon as you find out you’re pregnant.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What kind of Diagnostic Tests can a Midwife order?

There are a wide range of tests that a midwife can order. For example, a midwife can arrange for appropriate ultrasound and genetic screening, as well as standard initial laboratory and diagnostic tests.

 

What happens if something goes wrong?

If, during midwifery care, a health concern arises beyond the scope of midwifery practice, your midwife would consult with the appropriate health care professional. Occasionally, this may result in a transfer of your care to an obstetrician, or for your baby to a pediatrician. If your care is transferred, your midwife remains with you in a supportive role.