What If Things Do Not Go As Planned?

Most low risk mama’s have healthy pregnancies and uncomplicated births. However, sometimes birth does not go as planned and midwives are prepared when this occurs. 

Midwives have the training and skills to:

• Identify when a complication is developing early on
• Correct many developing complications
• Know when to refer to specialists (e.g.  Maternal Fetal Medicine, obstetrician, pediatrician) to help treat complications and achieve the best health outcomes possible for you and your baby

A healthy mom and baby is our number one priority at Way Maker Midwifery!

Although most people who plan to have their baby at home do have their baby at home, there are a number of reasons a planned home birth could end up happening in the hospital.

Non-emergent transfer to hospital

Most people move from home into the hospital for non-urgent reasons. The most common reasons are:

• Maternal exhaustion
• Access to pain relief options only available in hospital (e.g., an epidural)
• To receive the drug Pitocin to help speed up labor that is not progressing 

In these situations, there is no need for an ambulance, you may travel by car. 

Emergency transfer to hospital

Very few mama’s who plan to have their babies at home are transferred to hospital by ambulance. The most common emergencies requiring ambulance transport include:

• Heavy bleeding after the birth (postpartum hemorrhage).
• Concerns about the baby’s heartbeat during labor or their breathing after the birth.

If an emergent transfer to hospital is required, your midwife or birth assistant will call 911. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will come to your home, and you and/or your baby will be transported to the hospital by ambulance. The hospital will be notified of your and/or your baby’s condition and your medical records will be sent in advance. This allows staff to prepare for your arrival and prevent potential delays in care.

Your team at Way Maker Midwifery does monthly drills and yearly trainings to keep our skills up to date and in working order. Please Contact Us if you have any further questions or call us at 918.736.9955.