Job description
Advances in modern technology have meant there are many different ways and places in which a mother can choose to give birth. One of the most natural and convenient ways, however, is at home with a midwife.
Midwives are trained to help mothers with normal, uncomplicated pregnancies, labor, and deliveries. They’re also trained to recognize the types of problem that require the attention of an obstetrician—a medical doctor who specializes in delivering babies.
Whereas an obstetrician relies on technology, the midwife prefers to let the pregnancy happen as naturally as possible. Some studies have shown that midwifery care is not only safe and more personal, but also results in fewer cesarean sections and premature or low birth weight babies.
Midwives deal with all aspects of pregnancy. During the 9 month pregnancy, they offer pre-natal care. They examine pregnant women, give Pap smears, and do lab tests for normal pregnancies. They also give advice on diet, exercise, and environmental or behavioral effects on the unborn fetus.
When a woman is giving birth, midwives provide physical and emotional support. The midwife’s philosophy is that, if the pregnancy has been normal, the birth should be relatively spontaneous and trouble-free.
After birth, midwives assess the baby’s health and dietary needs. They give the mother advice on caring for herself and her child. Topics such as breast-feeding and parent-child bonding are addressed.
Many pregnant women choose to have a midwife as their primary caregiver, with an obstetrician as backup. Those who suspect they may have a more complicated pregnancy may choose to have an obstetrician as the primary caregiver and a midwife to help out with the labor.
From: Career Cruising
