Birth Options

When considering where to give birth, it's important to weigh the options available to you. Your midwife will guide you through this decision-making process, outlining the advantages and potential risks associated with different birth settings. They will address all your concerns and equip you with the necessary information to make an informed choice based on where you feel the safest and most at ease. Rest assured that, regardless of your chosen location, you will receive exceptional care from your midwife.

HOSPITAL

Hospital births are a popular choice, with about 68% of individuals in midwifery care planning to give birth in a hospital in Alberta. Hospitals offer rapid access to specialized care and heightened monitoring for both you and your baby. Every Registered Midwife in Alberta maintains hospital privileges, making hospitals the recommended option for those at an elevated risk of specific complications during childbirth.

ROYAL ALEXANDRA HOSPITAL : Lois Hole 10245 111 Ave NW, Edmonton

Fort Saskatchewan Community Hospital : 9401 86 Ave, Fort Saskatchewan, AB T8L 0C6

Sturgeon Community Hospital : 201 Boudreau Rd, St. Albert, AB T8N 6C4

HOME / HOTEL / AIR B&B

For those seeking a more intimate and familiar setting, home births, chosen by 25% of Alberta midwifery clients, are a viable option. Midwives in Alberta undergo extensive training to ensure the safety of home births for low-risk pregnancies. Research has demonstrated that, for healthy, low-risk pregnancies, home births are as secure as hospital births for both mother and child.

BIRTH CENTRE

Additionally, birth centers in Alberta afford a community-based, homely environment for labor and delivery. To give birth at a birth center, you must be under the care of a Registered Midwife. These centers offer a family-focused space that is comfortable and safe for the birthing process.

LUCINA BIRTH CENTRE : 9505 163 Street NW, Edmonton

RINITA BIRTH CENTER : 32 Akins Drive, St. Albert

WATER BIRTHS

Water births are a popular choice for many expectant mothers due to the reported benefits of laboring and giving birth in water. The use of water during labor is believed to promote deep relaxation, potentially reducing the need for pain relief. Initial studies suggest that water births are as safe for both the mother and the baby as traditional land births.

When considering a water birth, you have several options to explore. You can opt for a water birth at home using your own specialized birth pool. Some birth centers also offer facilities for water births. It's important to note that some hospital may not encourage water birth.

To delve deeper into the topic of water births and gain a comprehensive understanding of this birthing option, please visit www.waterbirth.org