Midwives of Kentucky
Frequently Asked Questions
You Ask. We Answer.
We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answers for your convenience. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please get in touch and we’ll respond to your inquiry as quickly as possible.
Why do I need a midwife?
Midwives value evidence-based care and emphasize the importance of shared decision-making. Midwives focus on what is most important to your unique situation and values. Midwives work closely with other members of the healthcare team to ensure you get the right care, at the right time.
Do I have a choice??
When it comes to birth setting, deciding where to go is more complex than just choosing based on location. Choosing a birth setting should take into consideration your personal preferences, your medical needs, the needs of your baby, and the level of care you are comfortable with. The philosophy about the birthing process may differ by setting, and the options available to you also depend on your choice. For example, if you desire an epidural to cope with the intensity of labor, a hospital setting is the perfect choice. However, if you are healthy and desire support for natural labor and birth with no interventions, home birth options are available.
What options do I have in Kentucky?
For most women in Kentucky who are healthy, your options are to give birth in a hospital or at home.
Currently, Kentucky has no free-standing birth centers.
If you have a serious medical condition, you will likely want to plan to give birth in a hospital. If you are unsure if a midwife is right for you, you can always ask a midwife! CPMs and CNMs can provide you with insight into your unique needs, perform a risk assessment, and refer you to the appropriate type of obstetric provider if it is warranted. Visiting with a midwife is the first step in your planning!
Why is it important to consider birth setting?
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Do your research when choosing a birth setting. Key quality indicators can vary from hospital to hospital. Here is the USA Today Maternal Mortality Database to search in your area and see rates of complications and other indicators such as the percentage of deliveries that were the mother's first C-section.
Does my insurance pay for midwifery care?
Most commercial insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare pay for CNM care. There are currently efforts to allow licensed CPMs to be recognized as providers by Medicaid so that recipients can have their CPM care paid for by Medicaid. If you need to enroll in Medicaid, click here.
Do you have a question?
Ask us general questions. No medical or midwifery advice will be provided. If you have a specific question regarding your care, please ask your provider, your midwife!
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