Frequently Asked Questions
Midwifery is a well-established practice, but you may have some questions about how it works or what it means for you. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if your question isn’t answered here.
I don’t have OHIP. Am I still eligible for midwifery care?
Yes! All women in Ontario, even those without OHIP, are eligible through the Midwifery Act.
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. You can register online with KWMA by completing the form located here.
Should I go with an OBGYN/family physician for my first pregnancy?
No. If you are planning a natural birth and have little to no medical conditions, midwifery care is optimal for all your pregnancies.
Can I have both 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 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.
Can I change my mind about my primary care provider?
If at any point during your pregnancy you decide to return to the care of your family doctor, you are free to do so.
Will you share details of my pregnancy with my family doctor?
We will inform your doctor of any details you wish to have shared with them. No details will be shared without your consent.
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 a health concern arises during pregnancy that is 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.
Where can I deliver 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.
Where do midwife appointments take place?
The majority of your appointments (with the exception of delivery, as well as a small number of home visits in the days after your baby is born) will take place in our office, unless your midwife determines it is necessary to make other arrangements with you.