Info & Resources
Helpful links and information for expecting mothersFrequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes midwifery care different?
A: We provide safe and modern maternity care in an out of hospital setting. Midwives are experts in caring for women and their newborns throughout all phases of pregnancy, birth and postpartum.
Q: What about prenatal testing and ultrasounds?
A: Laboratory testing is part of your care with all blood draws collected in office. Ultrasound testing is performed at our contracted diagnostic imaging facility with a professional evaluation read by a radiologist.
Q: Do you offer waterbirth?
A: Yes! We encourage the use of water during labor and birth. We also have rental birth pools available for our clients.
Q: What equipment does a midwife carry to a homebirth?
A: We carry up to date medical equipment to safely evaluate and monitor your labor and birth at home including, electronic fetal device, pharmaceuticals medications, medical instruments, newborn resuscitation equipment, oxygen, blood pressure monitoring, pulse oximeter, fluid test strips, herbal supplements and homeopathic remedies.
Q: Can I transfer from an OB to a midwife during pregnancy?
A: You may choose to transfer care to a midwife at any time. If you have been receiving care from another provider, we will request medical records and then evaluate your health and pregnancy history to see if homebirth is right for you.
Q: What if I don’t have insurance?
A: We offer a cash pay plan for those paying out of pocket. In additional, we offer a low cost laboratory package that will cover your routine labs. Ultrasounds are also offered at a discount at our contracted facility. At your initial visit, we arrange a payment plan that is comfortable for you. Most clients make monthly payments with everything paid in full by their due date.
Q: How safe is out of hospital birth?
A: Studies have shown that out of hospital birth is a safe options for healthy low risk women.
Worldwide, 80% of all births are attended by midwives with postivie outcomes. The British Journal of Medicine published a report on the safety of homebirth. Homebirth Study
Q: What about referrals or medical backup?
A: We work with a variety of health care professionals who will accept our clients in a medical emergency or for referrals during pregnancy if needed. We also work with holistic practitioners, chiropractors, acupuncturists, massage therapist, reflexologists and naturopathic doctors if you choose.
Q: What about referrals or medical backup?
A: We work with a variety of health care professionals who will accept our clients in a medical emergency or for referrals during pregnancy if needed. We also work with holistic practitioners, chiropractors, acupuncturists, massage therapist, reflexologists and naturopathic doctors if you choose.
Q: What if a transfer to the hospital becomes necessary?
A: We work closely with EMS and medical staff to prepare for a smooth and safe transport and will make every effort to accompany you to the hospital and stay with you throughout your time there.
Q: What types of people choose homebirth and why?
A: There is a wide range of women who choose natural birth at home. Couples who choose homebirth are educated and have learned through research, that birth is a normal and safe process. Many families choose homebirth because they wish to welcome the newborn into their family without the need for separation of other family members. We have clients from all backgrounds, professions, alternative lifestyles, religions and personal beliefs.
Q: How does someone train to become a midwife?
A: There are different paths to becoming a midwife. Some women apprentice train while others attend a MEAC accredited midwifery school. The process may take 3 or more years to complete. A CPM is a national certification that requires successful completion of both a written and practical skills exam through the National Association of Registered Midwives (NARM). A CPM credential is a requirement for midwifery licensure in most US states. Arizona has recently become a CPM state.
Arizona midwifery licensure requirements
Q: What is the difference between a Licensed Midwife / Certified Professional Midwife and a Certified Nurse Midwife?
A: A Certified Professional Midwife Credential requires successful completion of both a written and clinical skills exam through the North American Registry of Midwives. A Certified Professional Midwife is able to provide care for a mother and her newborn in an out of hospital environment. Certified Professional Midwife’s are licensed in the state they wish to practice in. All states have individual regulations and requirements that must be met into order to practice in their state with some states requiring an LM as well as a CPM compotant. (Midwifery Licensure by State) Certified Professional Midwife’s are specifically trained in normal pregnancy and birth and work in an out of hospital setting, i.e. home or birth center while a Certified Nurse Midwife is a Registered Nurse with additional training in Midwifery. CNM’s are usually affiliated with an obstetric practice’s and are trained in hospital to work primarily in a Dr.’s Office and in a hospital setting.
Q: Where can I learn more about the Arizona Midwifery Laws and midwifery training requirements?
**Arizona has recently revised its laws for midwives. Please check the website below for the most current updates.
Resources & Helpful Links
Childbirth Classes & Preparation for Birth
Midwifery Information and Resources
Natural Parenting, Information and Support
Lactation & Breastfeeding Support
Meg Gibson LC: Lacation-support@sunrisemidwifery.com
Birthing Supplies
Childbirth Classes & Preparation for Birth
Doulasupport@sunrisemidwifery.com (Special pricing for clients)
Recommended Supplements
Waterbirth Information
Midwifery Related
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