Wanting a HB, but MW will be out of town

[Etana]

I've wanted a HB for my 2nd baby ever since my first was born. My first child was born in a birth center and everything went wonderfully, no complaints. I just want to have the experience of a HB for this baby.

I found a midwife I really like, but the problem is she is going out of town about a week or so before my due date. My first child came a little early (still full term) and I'm very uncomfortable with the fact that she may or may not be there. She's got backups in case, but I want this baby to be born with the person I spend the next 34 weeks getting to know, not some random stranger!

I don't know what to think about any of this, and honestly it's but a damper on my spirit and it's making me think of giving up the whole idea of HB all together and going back to the birth center (although I HATE the thought of riding in the car during labor again!).

I just think if I'm going to hire someone for this journey, they can't miss the big day!

Advice?

[sarahr]

How much will you be able to meet/get to know the back up? Are there other homebirth MWs you could consider?

[Etana]

I don't know. We have a meeting with this midwife in the next few weeks to find out all the answers to these questions. I'm currently trying to find some other MW's I could use. I guess my thing is signing on with a MW who has a really good chance of not being there for the delivery, so it just kind of seems like a waste, does that make sense? Not to mention, wondering from now until the due date, is she'll be here or who will be coming in her place.

[Gray's Mommy]

There is a high chance that my m/w won't be attending my birth. She has another client due 2 days after me & for some reason I have it in my mind she won't be here for my birth. I do adore her back up midwife, so I am okay with the switch if she isn't here. I am sure it will set me back a bit, though, labor wise to have a change--but nothing I can't handle.

Think about it some more & talk to the midwife about your concerns. Maybe the back up midwife can do a few prenatals with the primary m/w & that way your mind can be more at ease.

[goldenwillow]

Homebirth

Don't give up your right to have a home birth due to your midwifes possible departure. I suggest seeing if you are comfortable with her back ups and scheduling a few appointments with them as well. Or, finding another that supports the time you need her to be there.