Midwives support clients to make informed decisions about their care. For example, when discussing the option of having genetic screening, ultrasound or other routine tests, your midwife will talk with you about what the test looks for, how it is performed, possible advantages and disadvantages, and any risks involved.

Midwives provide complete care throughout pregnancy, labour, birth, and the first six weeks following birth. This basket of services -- referred to as a "course of care"-- provides continuity, optimizing your safety and comfort. A team of midwives will be responsible for your care throughout pregnancy, labour/birth and postpartum. Clients can contact their midwives 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with urgent concerns.

Choosing where to give birth is one of the decisions that your midwife will support you to make. Midwifery clients may decide to give birth safely at home or in hospital. Midwives are the only health-care professionals who are specifically trained to attend out-of-hospital births. Midwives are able to admit and discharge clients and access hospital resources needed by clients, including a consultation from a physician if there is a concern or complication. If choosing a hospital birth, our midwives have privileges at St. Catharines Hospital.