The Missoula Birth Center
Birth
Birth
When the time comes, one of our Roots Midwives will meet you at the Birth Center to admit you for labor. We believe in the normalcy of labor and birth and allow your body to progress naturally, while regularly monitoring both you and your baby to ensure safety.
What to Expect During Labor and Birth:
- Freedom to eat and drink: You are welcome to bring snacks and drinks (we have a kitchen space and refrigerator available).
- Freedom of movement: We have a variety of props available including the tub, birthing balls, a birth stool, and a birth sling to hold onto.
- Support: In addition to support from your midwife and/or nurse, you are welcome to have family members (including children with supervision) present, and we always love it when our patients have birth doula support or birth photographers!
- Intermittent Monitoring: We use a handheld doppler to listen to your baby at regular intervals Freedom to Birth in any position, including waterbirth!
- Respect and Transparency: We do our best to support and respect your birth wishes, while being honest if adjustments or interventions are needed.
What to Expect Right After Your Baby is Born
- Immediate skin to skin and delayed cord clamping: These are standard of care at the birth center. As long as a baby is transitioning well, we can monitor them on your chest.
- Birthing your placenta: Please bring a cooler if you wish to take your placenta home. We will otherwise dispose of it for you.
- Stitches if you need them: Don’t worry, we have lidocaine!
- Newborn Exam: One you’re ready, your midwife will examine your little one including weights, measurements, and any newborn medications that you have requested.
- Assistance with breastfeeding: We want to get you off to the best start possible
- Food: Please bring a hearty meal to eat before you leave!
- Staying for about 4-6hrs before heading home.