Midwifery Care

Midwifery is a tradition that is as ancient as humanity. From the earliest times, in every culture, trained and experienced women have assisted mothers as they birthed their children. These women became known as midwives, a word literally meaning "with woman," from Middle English.

In modern times, midwifery is recognized as an optimal approach to supporting pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Cultures that center midwifery care as the standard for healthy mothers - with obstetrical care at the ready when needed - end up with healthier mothers and babies. Midwifery care is evidence-based and supported by continued research as the gold standard for normal birth.

In 2008, a group of leaders and researchers developed “The Midwives Model of Care," a statement that encompasses the foundational tenets of midwifery care. It includes:

• "Monitoring the physical, psychological, and social well-being of the mother throughout the childbearing cycle

• Providing the mother with individualized education, counseling, and prenatal care, continuous hands-on assistance during labor and delivery, and postpartum support

• Minimizing technological interventions

• Identifying and referring women who require obstetrical attention
  

The application of this woman-centered model of care has been proven to reduce the incidence of birth injury, trauma, and cesarean section.” (Midwifery Task Force, 2008)

At Rooted Birth, we are committed to caring for mothers and babies in responsible, evidence-based, mother-honoring ways, promoting holistic well-being and normal birth.