Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM): Midwives who are a part of the American College of Nurse-Midwives practice the midwifery model of care. Many women choose midwives because they want a more personalized approach to birth.
Doula: A doula is someone trained to support a woman through labor, sort of like a birth coach. The goal of the Doula is to help women and their families achieve the childbirth experiences they envision. Doulas view their role as nurturing and protecting a woman's memory of the birth experience.
Doctor of Chiropractic: Pregnancy-specialized doctors of chiropractic are trained to work the pregnant mother by performing chiropractic adjustments (Webster Technique), a gentle and effective means of restoring proper pelvic balance and function. With the overabundant levels of relaxing coursing through a woman's body during labor, it is common for the pelvis to get out of alignment. This is less than ideal. Women who have undergone chiropractic adjustments during their pregnancy, and more so during labor, report that their labors are easier and less stressful on their bodies.
Lactation Consultant (IBCLC): As clinical experts in the management of breastfeeding and human lactation, certified lactation consultants are trained to counsel mothers and families on initiation, exclusivity, and duration of breastfeeding, and to assist amid and difficulties or high-risk situations. IBCLCs are sensitive to and support the needs of mothers, infants, children, and various family structures in working toward breastfeeding goals.
Medical Doctor/OBGYN: Chances are you've already met the doctor who will attend your birth, if you are opting, for the hospital route. However, if you go to a large practice or your usual provider is not available, you maybe meeting this person for the first time on your birthing day. Your attending doctor will oversee your care during your delivery and may be present from the time you start labor, or they may not arrive until you are ready to give birth.
If you envision yourself giving birth in a hospital... Great! Know your options. If you envision yourself giving birth in a birthing center... Great! Know your options. If you envision yourself giving birth at home... Great! Know your options!! YOU HAVE OPTIONS!! Never let anyone make you think otherwise.
Article by Ashley Gonzales, D.C. Pathways Issue 73/Spring 2022
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Dr. Jane Steffen Bye, DC, FICPA treats a variety of conditions due to automobile accidents, work related incidents, and sports injuries. She also has a special interest in infants, children, and the care of pregnant women with prenatal chiropractic. Dr. Jane Steffen Bye, DC, FICPA has continued postgraduate studies in these areas.
