NotUrsula- just curious, which state would that be? And are you talking CPM or CNM?
Here in the US Midwives are usually practitioners that support a more natural birth experience. Babies are also delivered by primary care physicians and OBs. While some of them certainly encourage natural births, the standard operating procedure for births in America would make your hair curl. Between routine induction of labor, routine drugs for pain, routine epidurals, routine fetal monitoring, routine episomities and a high percentage of c-sections it's no wonder that some women choose a midwife.Wow! Finding this thread fascinating! I am a midwife in the UK and we carry out all care for women in pregnancy, labour, delivery and the post partum period, only referring to an OB if there is a problem. We are very autonomous and largely work alone. Doulas are not common here as we tend to take their role too. I didn't realise that it was illegal for midwives to practice in some states. What about Florida?
Don't get me wrong! I would have used any and all of those procedures/medications/ect *if* I needed it. I'm not dumb or stubborn or a "hero". In fact, I was attached to a fetal monitor because my DD showed some distress and they needed to monitor her heart rate. It's just the routine aspect of all those medical interventions that bugs me about the way we Americans birth babies. The sad fact is that since it is the SOP many women don't even question it.
Tina thanks for your kind words. I'm glad someone notices....
Now to defend my profession. As an L&D RN I have seen my share of "bad" doulas. They are for the most part unregulated there are organizations that certify but with varying degrees of requirements. IF you decide on a doula make sure she is REALLY experienced, not just fudging the numbers and get at least three recommendations by Moms that really have used her as well as any MDs she has worked with.
Can you get a bad L&D RN, of course. But if you are not "connecting" with her then ask for someone else. It is our privilege to be able to participate in your birth and if your not happy with your nurse by all means ask for a switch. Most hospitals will accommodate.
IMHO its not the Doula or RN or MD that makes or breaks your birth experience but your partner. LEt them know you your wants and needs, tell them how to help, take classes and really PRACTICE! It goes so much better when they don't look like a deer caught in the headlights.