Questions to ask a potential midwife

[Geigerin]

Hi! We just got a post on our local forum that a panel of midwives will be at our library this evening.

My husband and I are just starting to TTC #1, but I'd like to find a midwife as soon as we can to build a relationship and get an idea of what to expect.

Since we're new to this, I'm not sure what all I should be asking. I understand the differences between the different certifications, and there doesn't appear to be a birthing center in our area (maybe one, but I'm not certain).

There's a list of questions in our NFL book for the different types of providers (birth center vs. home vs. hospital caregivers), but I'm not sure I would ask all of them the first time I meet someone.

What do you wish more mothers would think about or ask?

Thanks for your help!

Amie

[cristeen]

Coming from the other perspective... I've been interviewing MWs for the last week. The most informative question I have found has been, "What is your general philosophy of care; what are your basic beliefs about pregnancy and birth?" This is the very first thing I ask them - and the question is appropriate for any type of caregiver (doula, OB, MW, etc.).

My list of questions is about a page and a half. But I found that for most of the midwives, getting them talking on the above question would answer at least half of my questions. For some of them it answered all but the questions about fees.

But, as a student MW, some of my questions are definitely a bit more "odd" than they normally encounter. It took a few of them aback a bit, but none of them had a problem answering even the more unusual questions. Honestly, if someone is acting as if answering your questions is an imposition now, imagine how it will be during prenatals which are typically more tightly scheduled.

Just my 2 cents worth.

[courtenay_e]

Hello! I'm moving this to the homebirth forum, where hopefully you will find some answers from women who have recently asked these questions! Also look in the stickies at the top of the homebirth forum. I think that you will find a sticky there with "what do you ask a homebirth midwife?" answered!

[Peppamint]

If you search online, you can find basic questions. My preceptor actually carries a binder to consultations that answers pretty much every question that prospective clients will ask. My preceptor and I won't be at the meeting tonight... PM me if you want her number to interview her later.