Frequently Asked Questions about Midwifery Care
Registered Midwives (RMs) provide primary care to clients during pregnancy, labour, and birth.
We continue to provide midwifery care during the first six weeks after the baby is born.
When do I arrange for midwifery care?
Is there any reason why I can’t have a midwife?
Can I have a midwife and a doctor?
Midwives, obstetricians and family physicians are all considered primary caregivers. A primary caregiver takes sole responsibility for your care. To have two caregivers is viewed as a duplication of health care services.
How often do I see a midwife?
Visits to a midwifery practice occur on a regular basis during which time midwives provide clinical examinations, counseling and education. Appointments are 30 minutes.
The appointment schedule follows the standard care model:
- First 28 weeks, prenatal visits are every 4–6 weeks.
- 28-weeks to 36-weeks, every two weeks.
- 36-weeks onward, once a week until your baby is born.
Midwives are on-call for emergencies 24-hours a day. Midwives work collaboratively in group practices. Clients receives care from a small number of midwives.
What kind of testing can a midwife order?
Is there a charge for midwifery care?
Where can I have my baby?
Do you offer childbirth classes?
There is a fee for these classes.
For more information, see our list of Prenatal Classes.
Recent News:
BIRTH SUITE NOW OPEN
We are excited to announce that our clinic birth suite is now available to clients wanting an out-of-hospital birth. Ask your midwife for a tour the next time you're at the St. Jacobs Clinic.
Covid-19 Vaccine in Pregnancy (Apr.2021)
Effective immediately, pregnant people can register for #COVID19 vaccination appointments in Ontario under the “highest risk” health conditions in Phase Two of the province’s vaccine rollout. Pregnant people in #WatReg can pre-register at this link: Waterloo Region...
COVID-19 Response
The best way to stay informed is to follow us on Facebook and Instagram @stjacobsmidwives. As we respond to COVID-19, there may be frequent adjustments to keep our clients, midwives, and community safe.
Pregnant and looking for care?
Please connect with us as soon as possible to check for availability.