Before you hire a midwife, be sure to interview several carefully. Take your time reviewing their history, call up their references, have a list of questions handy, research the legal issues in your state and ask the midwife for proof of her certification.

Whether you're giving birth at a hospital or birthing center, it doesn't so much matter the where as the 'what' to bring with you. Remember, only bring what makes sense to you. Read "Birth Bag Tips and Checklist" for a comprehensive list that you can use as a guide.

Our understanding of anatomy, modern medicine, the mechanics of childbirth, and technology have significantly increased, causing more and more women to explore the idea of a home birth. As the curiosity in home birth grows, the number of studies and statistical data will continue to grow and give us a greater understanding of the risks and benefits. Read "Home Birth to help increase your understanding as you move toward an informed decision.

QUESTION

Dear Midwife,
I've had fast labor before 2 1/2 hours from when I woke up barely cramping to the three pushes till he was born.

I live over an hour from the hospital and afraid I wont make it. What can be done to make sure I make it in time.

QUESTION

Dear Midwife,
I have placenta previa. I also have to take Prometreum because I do not produce enough progesterone. I am approximately 22 weeks and am about to go in for my second ultrasound.

I am scared to death of what is going to happen if the placenta doesn't move up. I know that I will have a C-section if it does not. But I am still worried about bleeding a lot and healing times. I was wondering if you could help put my mind at ease.

Thanks,
Brittany

Throughout pregnancy a mucus plug blocks the opening to the cervix to prevent bacteria from entering. Before labor, this mucus plug is expelled so that the cervix can open to allow the baby to pass through to prepare for delivery. Read "Mucus Plug: Bloody Show" to learn more.

QUESTION

My partner wants a hospital birth complete with an OB/GYN. My preference is a home birth with a midwife but I was willing to compromise on using a birth center. He's not budging.

What are some ways that I can help him move away from this sterile birth experience to one that I'm more comfortable with other than just telling him "I'm not doing it!" and creating another war?

I get that is how his sisters and friends' wives delivered but this is MY birth experience, too!
Dani

Transition is the phase of labor just before the pushing stage. At about 6 or 7 centimeters of dilation, some of the symptoms of "transition" appear. During transition, contractions become very strong, and often their duration and frequency are less predictable. Read "What to Expect: Transition" to learn more.