To midwives and their clients, pregnancy and birth are normal, healthy life events. Midwifery promotes normal childbirth and the prevention of health problems. In 1994, midwifery became an integrated part of the Ontario healthcare system and is provided free of charge to residents of the province.
Midwives provide care in both the hospital and home setting.
A midwife is a primary caregiver, which means that she can provide all the care necessary for a healthy woman and her baby throughout pregnancy, birth and for six weeks afterward. Midwives refer women and babies to family doctors or specialist doctors like obstetricians and pediatricians if the care becomes complicated. Even if care is transferred to a doctor at the birth, midwives will remain involved in the care as a support to the mother and baby. However, it is best to call as early in pregnancy as possible to ensure that your midwife has space for you. Generally, two midwives will attend each birth and share the care throughout the pregnancy, labour, birth and after the birth for six weeks.