Doc vs. Midwife: Should I switch?

[dolfinluvr]

I am currently pg for the third time. First pg ended in a missed miscarriage at 11wks. I then got pg 3mo. later and was blessed to have a healthy baby girl in Jan. of 2004. I see a Family Practice doctor who specializes in OB/GYN and Emergency medicine. I really do like her. She is your typical doctor yet really listens to my concerns/wishes. I had taken the Bradley Method Birthing classes with last pg and learned a LOT! I had more than usual procedures (ie. ultrasounds, doppler) with my last pg but that was due to the previous miscarriage. I shamefully admit to renting a doppler too with my last pg only b/c I was a bit of a paranoid freak constantly worrying about the well-being of my baby and hearing her lil' heartbeat made me feel "safe". I am not, however, doing that with this pg as I feel better and more relaxed with this one. However, I will elect for a 20wk. ultrasound. I am 50/50 on those being "harmful" to babies, esp. if done later in pg. I actually had 4 with last pg, all but one for necessary reasons.

I plan on having as natural of a hospital birth as possible, much like I did last time. But I am thinking more lately about consulting with a midwife to ensure that this happens. With the last pg. I had to be induced at 38wks. due to pre-eclampsia. All in all the experience was positive up til the end when Ava decided to turn and face the wrong way. But I did it all med free. I feel comfortable with my doctor but often find myself wondering if a midwife would be more understanding and would ensure me a more natural delivery.

What are you ladies thoughts, experiences, etc.?

[zebrabelly]

Depends on the midwife and where you are giving birth. Homebirth midwives have more freedom than those in birthing centers and hospitals.

My own midwife, I believe would help to treat the preeclampsia before it became dangerous. I had high BP and she had me on herbs and watched me very carefully to make sure it didn't get worse. We worked on my diet and exercise to keep me healthy and I had a great birth and a healthy baby all naturally.

Not saying that's the case in all situations, but I do believe some caregivers are more well-informed when it comes to natural and preventive treatment than others.

As for your situation. I'd recommend you read up on dietary measures to help you. I really believe preeclampsia can be prevented/treated with diet. Look into the Brewer Diet which was created for just this situation. Also there's an article out there by Anne Frye called "Turning Toxemia Around" you might like to read. I've never found it online, only in old copies of a magazine, but it's a great article.

Bonnie

[Desdamona]

Honestly I would ask myself how I felt about my previous pregnancy and birth... Did you feel that your wishes and concerns were respected? Do you feel that having already gone through the birth process that you will be able to say that you want to birth with this practice again? What do you want to achieve with this birth? Do you think you'll be able to get that birth in the hospital? Would you be better suited in a birthing center? At home? Where are you most comfortable giving birth? Only you and your partner can answer all those questions...

I second what Bonnianne said re: the Brewer's diet. There are ways to treat high BP and pre-eclampsia before steps such as induction are needed. Hopefully you won't have to deal with that time 'round.

[~Megan~]

A midwife can offer very safe care. I love midwives.
And if you have a major problem you can always go back to your doctor (but you probably won't need to!)

[peace_lily_mama]

I agree with the first sentence of Bonnie's reply. It totally depends. If your doc is great, and you go check out a few midwives who just aren't working, then I'd just stick with what you got. My first PG, we knew we wanted a midwive, cause i'm totally freaked out by hospitals. So, the first center we checked out seemed cool and everything, but their stats were horrible. over 1/2 chance a first timer would be sent to the hospital. The main midwife didn't know how to get the cord out from around the neck if that should happen. We obviously decided not to go with her, and thankfully we found the right place.
Having said that, I do think that you are lucky that you had a smooth labor after being induced. I really dislike all the interventions, and I think they cause more problems than anything. I, personally, would feel much more comfortable with a midwife, but like I said, if you can't find one that is good, and you like your doc, then maybe hire a doula and write a really strong birth plan. Good luck, Kristy!