Question: Will I be able to eat and drink in labor?
Answer:

Yes.  You will be encouraged to eat if you want to and will need to drink to keep yourself hydrated.  Typically, women will lose their appetite in active labor.  It is not uncommon for women to become nauseated or vomit as . . . → Read More: FAQ: Will I be able to eat and drink in labor?

Question: Is there a limit to the number of people I can invite to my birth?
Answer:

There are no restrictions on the number of people who are with you in labor.  I do believe that it is extremely important that each person be supportive of the choices that you are making.  When people are . . . → Read More: FAQ: Is there a limit to the number of people I can invite to my birth?

Question: What types of testing do you offer?
Answer:

The only real requirement I have for testing during prenatal care is a prenatal blood panel and a urine test.  I can order a variety of prenatal testing that is routinely ordered but I no only do so at your direction.  I believe that it . . . → Read More: FAQ: What types of testing do you offer?

Question: Do you accept insurance for your services?
Answer:

Yes, I bill all private insurances and now the AIM program.  It is your responsibility to contact your insurance company to be sure that you have coverage for midwifery services.  Unfortunately, California does not allow midwives who attend births at home to bill MediCal.  I . . . → Read More: FAQ: Do you accept insurance for your services?

Question: How do you handle routine phone calls between visits?
Answer:

I give you my cell phone number and you have direct access to me at all times.  I encourage you to use my message machine for non-urgent calls. You can leave me a message and I will return . . . → Read More: FAQ: How do you handle routine phone calls between visits?

Question: How much time do you allow for each prenatal visit?
Answer:

The initial visit is an hour and a half.  During that appointment, the majority of time is devoted to education about how to care for yourself during pregnancy.  This includes nutrition, stress management, exercise and proper rest.  All other prenatal appointments are . . . → Read More: FAQ: How much time do you allow for each prenatal visit?

Question: Where do you attend births?
Answer:

I attend births in your private home or in the birthing area in my home, located next to Mercy Medical Center.  I will attend births in your home if you live within a twenty-minute drive from my home.  I charge an additional fee to attend the birth . . . → Read More: FAQ: Where do you attend births?