As independent practitioners, midwives practice collaboratively and consult with medical specialists, other health care professionals and hospitals. They refer clients when necessary. Midwifery is cost effective. Midwifery care is flexible. Midwifery services can be provided in a variety of settings, including hospitals, community-based birth centres or homes.
Midwives offer on-going support to mothers, babies and families.
Midwifery provides continuity of care throughout pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. Midwives work in rural communities. There are shortages of doctors in parts of rural Nova Scotia, and even where there currently is a doctor, women must sometimes travel out of their community for care in late pregnancy and childbirth. Midwifery is family-centred. Midwives work in partnership with women and their families, building a relationship based on respect and tailored to meet each woman's health, social and personal needs.