worried about finding a midwife

[~pi]

I just need to vent.

I am type 1 diabetic, which means that I am automatically high risk. I am extremely well-controlled, and I do not have the same issues (e.g. large babies) as women with type 2 or GD, but I do have elevated risks of stillbirth and lung problems regardless of how well-controlled I am.

If I weren't high risk, I would be planning a homebirth. I have accepted that I won't get to have that experience, but I still want to have as natural a birth as possible in the hospital.

I have emailed two midwife groups that have privileges at my local hospital. One group got back to me today and they won't take me. I'm really crossing my fingers that the second group will be different. They also have privileges at the hospital where my endocrinologist and diabetic team practice. That hospital has a diabetes and pregnancy clinic, so I'm really hoping that the midwives will agree to see me as long as I go to the clinic also a few times.

I don't know why this is bothering me so much. I think it's because I'm sad that I'm high risk and won't get to have the experience I want. Although I suppose having any expectations at all about birth is pretty silly.

[paisley]

Originally Posted by ~pi

Although I suppose having any expectations at all about birth is pretty silly.

Well, yes and no. I mean, ideally we would all be able to have the birth experience we want without fear of interventions or financial concerns. But unfortuantely those are both very real worries for women giving birth these days, especially the unwanted and unnecessary interventions.

I hope that the second group of midwives will be happy to have you as a client. If not, please don't give up your dreams and goals of the birth you want. This is your pregnancy, your baby, and your experience, period. There are midwife-like OBs out there (just like there are OB-like midwives, but that's another topic) who have low c-sec rates and a more hands-off approach while still having the ability to support Mamas with 'high risk' pregnancies.

I'll be thinking of you and hoping that you find an awesome care provider. Please keep us updated!

[paisley]

Wanted to add that there is a Canada forum here where you might be able to get some good local care provider references.

[~pi]

Thanks so much for the reassurance, Jen. I will definitely try the Canada forum for recommendations if the second group won't take me.