That Midwife Life
I am a 2019 graduate from Ryerson University’ Midwifery Education Program. I am in active, good standing with the College of Midwives of Ontario (CMO) and the Association of Ontario Midwives (AOM).
Frequently Asked Questions
What do Midwives do
Midwives are health-care professionals who provide government-funded expert primary care to pregnant people and their newborns. Through pregnancy, labour, birth and the first six weeks after birth, you will be cared for by a small group of midwives. This continuity of care means that you are likely to know the midwife who delivers your baby.
A midwife is not a doula! A birth doula is a trained labour support person who provides emotional and physical support to those giving birth and their families. While not medical professionals, doulas can offer a wide range of comfort measures. You would find and pay your doula yourself, as doula services are not covered by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. If you are considering having a doula at your birth, talk about it with your midwife.
Why would I choose a midwife to be the primary care provider in my pregnancy
Midwives view pregnancy and childbirth as a profound time in a person’s life, with a variety of personal and cultural meanings. They see themselves as partners in their clients’ care and recognize clients as the primary decision-makers. Ontario’s midwifery model of care is based on three principles: continuity of care; informed choice and choice of birthplace. Email me with more questions.
How are midwives regulated
Yes. The profession of midwifery is regulated by the College of Midwives of Ontario (CMO), in accordance with the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA). The CMO protects childbearing clients and infants by ensuring that midwives provide competent and ethical care
Can anyone have a midwife
You can choose to have a midwife or a doctor, not both. As midwives are experts in low-risk pregnancy and birth, midwifery clients will not see a physician unless there are concerns or complications. If complications arise, midwives can consult with physicians or, if necessary, transfer a client’s care to a physician. If care is transferred, midwives continue to support their clients and resume primary care when it is possible. You don't need a referral from a doctor to have a midwife, just contact the clinic directly.
There are no age restrictions for accessing midwifery care. Anyone with a normal and low-risk pregnancy is eligible for a midwife. The majority of births are normal and low risk. If a health concern or a complication arises, your midwife may consult with a physician. Situations that require consultation with, or transfer to, a physician are set by the College of Midwives of Ontario. If needed, your care is transferred to a physician (for example, in the case of a caesarean section). Your midwife will continue to provide support and resume primary care when possible.
Contact
To become a client at The Midwives Clinic of East-York Don Mills visit the website at www.themidwivesclinic.ca and fill out the intake form OR, use the contact below
Office
1 Leaside Park Drive. Toronto ON M4H1R1
themidwivesclinic@gmail.com
Phone
+1 (416) 424-1976