MIDWIFE

Damien and I started this journey going to a midwife located in an organization affiliated with the local hospital. After exploring options we realized we wanted to do a home delivery and began the search for a home delivery midwife. We asked around and one place was highly recommended by both midwifes and people who had them deliver. At the appointment we were extremely uncomfortable as she was very conservative and procedure oriented. Didn't even bother to talk about herself or ask us how we were doing. She agreed with many hospital procedures we don't and was so detached from the whole experience that it wasn't even funny. Isn't the whole point of doing a home birth to feel comfortable, relaxed, and empowered? Needless to say we did not go back. I began to research other places online and found Balanced Birth Midwifery in east Portland. When I called Ellie (the Midwife) she had one opening for a November delivery! (Meant to be) Damien and I met with her yesterday and it was a perfect fit. She completely understood us and what we wanted from this experience. She doesn't force vaccines (in fact she doesn't even believe in them herself), she supports a vegan lifestyle during pregnancy, she is about letting the mother and baby take their time for things happen when they are suppose too, she does home and water births, etc. Ellie felt more like an old friend who we could chat with for hours. We both walked away from the experience feeling relieved and excited about the road ahead. Ellie has delivered over 600 babies and only has she had to transport to the hospital for a c-section 6 times! Unlike hospitals that can have up to a 60% c-section rate. We meet again for our first official appointment next week. Since i am in the 3rd trimester I will go every other week until the 36th week then I will see her every week until delivery. What a relief to have found someone so supportive, experienced, and kind to help us through this experiene. My only regret is that we didn't start seeing her earlier. It is all a learning experience and we will be better prepared for our next babies!