Welcome To Mission Midwives Pregnancy is a time of preparation, planning, and getting to know yourself and your family in a whole new way. This can be an exciting process, and sometimes an overwhelming one. It is our hope that the women and families we work with have the support to really learn about their choices, make informed decisions, and have the opportunity to fully connect with their own experience giving birth. Philosophy of care We believe that maternity care should be woman-centered. All women should have access to care that centers on their needs, choices and concerns for themselves and their babies. Women have the right to access current, evidence-based information and research to make informed decisions throughout their care. We believe that maternity care should be family-centered; however, each family may be defined. Building strong connections with women and families improves collective health and strengthens our community in far-reaching ways. Midwifery care is also focused on building trusting partnerships between women and their care providers. Women should have the opportunity to get to know their midwives through the course of their care, in preparation for labour and birth. Is Midwifery right for you? In BC, women generally choose a midwife or a family physician as their primary care provider during a low-risk pregnancy. Some OB/Gyns also provide primary care. There are some similarities and some differences in the models of care practiced between these care providers, but all services are fully covered by MSP. Whichever model you choose, if complications arise and you require the services of a specialist (for example, an obstetrician, pediatrician, or lactation consultant) these referrals are made through your midwife or doctor. If you have further questions about whether midwifery care is right for you, we offer the opportunity to meet with the midwife for an initial consultation in order to discuss your care preferences and plans for this pregnancy and birth. We will share information about the BC midwifery model of care, our scope of practice, and review your choice of birthplace options. You are then free to decide which type of care best suits your needs.