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Need a Doctor?

Choosing a Pregnancy Health Care Provider

By Ginny Hermann

CNMs deliver in a hospital or birth center and their services are covered by most insurance companies and HMOs. Most do not deliver in the home because, by doing so, they could lose their hospital privileges.

Lay midwives often do not hold nursing degrees and may or may not be licensed. Many are not associated with a doctor, and therefore do not provide care in a hospital setting. "My last birth, at home, was with an unlicensed midwife from Jamaica," says Weaver. "She was very knowledgeable, but chose not to attempt licensure in the States. She was incredible, and didn't even balk when she assisted my nearly 11-pound, 23.5-inch-long son into the world." When considering a lay midwife, be sure to do your research and get as much information about her history of care as possible.

No matter what type of pregnancy care provider you choose, make sure she is someone in whom you trust and feel comfortable. Remember, this is one of the most important decisions you make during pregnancy. Weigh your options and make the choice that is best for you and your baby.

Want to see more?

• Guide to Common Pregnancy Tests and Procedures
• So, You Want to Have a Homebirth
• The Homebirth Hype
• The Mother-Friendly Childbirth Initiative

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