Choosing the person to take care of you during pregnancy and childbirth is an important decision. Your healthcare provider, including midwives, can increase your confidence and address your concerns about giving birth. She or he should:
- Be committed to helping you learn about the birth process, while providing you with information so that you can make the best decisions for you and your baby.
- Allow you enough time to make decisions without feeling pressured.
- Know how to help you cope with pain in labor without using medications and assure your comfort, dignity and privacy.
- Respect your cultural beliefs and preferences.
- Have the education, knowledge, skills and confidence to help you achieve your goals.