IS MIDWIFERY CARE AS SAFE FOR MOM AND BABY AS SEEING AN OB/GYN? WHAT ABOUT DELIVERING OUTSIDE OF A HOSPITAL?

Research supported evidence can be seen in decades of research on the topic - care by a certified nurse midwife is as safe as care by an obstetrician, when comparing normal, healthy pregnancies (which the majority of women enjoy).

When comparing delivery outcomes with certified nurse midwives versus obstetricians, mothers cared for by CNMs have lower cesarean birth rates, lower rates of labor induction, lower rates of labor intervention (augmentation), lower rates of epidural usage, and lower rates of perineal tears (especially third and fourth degree tears) and episiotomies. Mothers receiving care from CNMs also have a higher likelihood of breastfeeding success.

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For normal, healthy pregnancies, giving birth outside of a hospital has been shown to be as safe AND provides a more pleasurable birth experience!

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The American Association of Birth Centers is a helpful resource for more on the topic. They even have printable information you can share with your family and friends.

HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH COMPLICATIONS?

You and your baby's safety is our top priority.  Certified nurse midwives are trained in differentiating the normal from the abnormal, throughout prenatal care and during labor and delivery. If there is any indication that your pregnancy or labor is progressing abnormally, a smooth transition will be made to a higher level of care. The birth center is stocked with emergency medications and equipment, and the Flourish team trains and regularly practices emergency drills to be prepared for these unlikely occurrences. If you have complications that require the care of an obstetrician and hospital transport, we already have that line of communication open and action plan in place. We work closely with collaborating MDs and a nearby hospital to ensure you will be cared for in any and all circumstances. Medical City Lewisville is located 2.5 miles from the center. 

AM I SAFE CANDIDATE FOR OUT OF HOSPITAL BIRTH?

We will perform a risk screening prior to your first appointment, at no cost to you, to ensure you are a safe candidate to establish care at Flourish.  If we find you are not, we can refer you to several wonderful providers who deliver in the hospital setting. However, the majority of women are safe candidates for out of hospital birth.

I HAVE BEEN SEEING ANOTHER PROVIDER - CAN I TRANSFER MY CARE TO FLOURISH? EVEN IN THE MIDDLE OF A PREGNANCY?

Yes! After checking to make sure that you are a safe candidate for out of hospital birth, we will schedule your first appointment. We will have you complete our office's Medical Record Release form so we may obtain your health records from your previous provider.

WHAT MEMBERS OF THE FLOURISH TEAM WILL ATTEND MY BIRTH?

Each birth is supported by at least two birth attendants, one being a certified nurse midwife. Our team has years of experience assisting women in labor and delivery. You are in safe, capable hands! When it is time to birth, the relationship built between you and your midwives will lend you strength and comfort. You focus on you, and we'll focus on you too!

HOW CAN MY FAMILY BE INVOLVED? ARE MY OTHER CHILDREN INVITED TO MY APPOINTMENTS AND BIRTH?

We support involvement from your chosen birth team. There is no policy dictating how many loved ones can be by your side. This is your birth!

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Yes, your other children are invited to your appointments and the birth. We have a comfortable children's area for them, and will work to incorporate them according to your wishes. For your focus, and ours, we would ask that you appoint an adult to attend the birth with the children, whose primary responsibility is to care for your children, while we care for you. 

CAN I HAVE A WATERBIRTH?

Absolutely!  Each birth suite has its own private bathroom. This bathroom includes a large shower and birth tub designed with your comfort in mind!

DO I NEED TO SEE A DOCTOR IN ADDITION TO THE FLOURISH MIDWIVES?

DOES FLOURISH OFFER NITROUS OXIDE?