Your Midwifery Care

First Trimester Midwifery Care

Prenatal care should begin at 8-12 weeks of gestation or sooner if you are experiencing problems. The first pregnancy visit usually lasts an hour and includes a physical exam, medical history, and an introduction to midwifery care. Blood and urine specimens are collected for many important tests and infection screening is offered. Our nurse-midwife will talk about the best practices for a healthy pregnancy as you begin to form an important relationship with your midwife and the staff at Inanna Birth and Women's Care.

One of the greatest benefits of prenatal care at Inanna Birth and Women's Care is the amount of time and personal attention you will receive. Additional appointments will be scheduled monthly until the third trimester and generally last 30-60 minutes. Additional time and attention translates into improved outcomes.

Second Trimester Midwifery Care

During your visits from 13-24 weeks, the midwives will listen to fetal heart tones and check your fundal height. Your urine will be tested for the presence of sugar and protein and your blood pressure is monitored. You will talk about nutrition, exercise, dealing with pregnancy discomforts, selecting appropriate childbirth classes, and any questions or concerns you may have.
 
Third Trimester Midwifery Care

Visits with the midwives become more frequent as your baby's due date draws near.  As before, we monitor your blood pressure, test your urine for the presence of sugar and protein and address any discomforts you may be experiencing. The baby's heart tones are monitored and the baby's position is also noted. A test for gestational diabetes is done in the 7th month and a vaginal culture for Group B Strep is collected in the last month.

You are encouraged to talk to us about your preferences for labor, birth and the immediate postpartum period. Much time is devoted to preparation for your birth and we will work closely with you and your partner during the last weeks of pregnancy.

Having Your Baby at the Birth Center

If you have a low-risk pregnancy, you may choose to give birth at Inanna Birth and Women's Care. The birthing center has two beautifully furnished birthing suites, which are fully equipped with all the safety and emergency equipment required by the Texas State Department of Health. Each suite includes a full-size bed, fresh linens and towels, a stereo, candles, windows that open for fresh air, a private bathroom and a large tub. Also available are a birth stool, birth ball and hot and cold packs.  All the people present at your birth would be those who are familiar to you.

Midwifery Care During Labor and Birth

During labor, we will monitor your safety and progress while providing you and your family with the level of support you need and desire. The midwife and a trained birth assistant are both present to encourage and support you during your labor. The Birth Center features a large, luxurious birth tub and many women choose to labor and birth in the comfort of water. Family, friends and doulas are welcome to participate according to your wishes. 

Food or fluid restriction, IV access, and continuous electronic fetal monitoring are not routinely used in births at Inanna Birth and Women's Care. We listen to your baby's heartbeat intermittently with a doppler and monitor your temperature and blood pressure throughout labor. We encourage you to change positions frequently during labor and birth your baby in the way that seems natural to you. All concerns are discussed together and your wishes are respected.

Our philosophy about newborn care is to prioritize family bonding. At the moment of birth, the baby is passed directly to the mother. The newborn exam is done in the room with the family present. We will encourage and assist you to nurse your baby soon after birth. We do not routinely offer sugar water or pacifiers to babies and your baby will never leave your side.

Postpartum Midwifery Care

The midwife remains with you at the Birthing Center during the early postpartum period. She provides early newborn care and breastfeeding assistance. Clients usually then go home a few hours after birth. Midwifery follow-up takes place through a 3 day visit and phone conversations during the first days after birth. Final office visits occur at 2 and 6 weeks postpartum.
 
Insurance Coverage

Over the years, insurance companies have learned that birth centers provide a safe and cost-effective method of obstetrical care, and Inanna Birth and Women's Care is reimbursed by major insurance companies including but not limited to:

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • United Health Care
  • Beech Street
  • Humana
  • Medicaid

If your insurance does not include Inanna Birth and Women's Care as a contracted facility, we are eager to work with you to find a suitable payment plan that meets your needs. Please do not allow your fear of being unable to afford the birth you desire prevent you from coming and talking with Lynne, our office manager.

Childbirth Preparation

Labor and birth are exciting, yet challenging experiences.  Childbirth education will help you meet, and possibly exceed, your expectations.  Birthing From Within childbirth preparation classes are offered through Inanna Birth and Women's Care.  Weekly classes are available for a small separate fee.  These classes are very unique, interactive and lots of fun for the woman and her partner.  Our midwives will help families prepare for one of lifes most precious events.