Yes, studies show that births planned at home or in a birth center with a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) are just as safe as hospital birth for low-risk women. One such study was done in 2006 and was a prospective study of over 5,000 women who were attended by CPMs as compared to an equal number of low-risk hospital births. Outcomes for mother and baby were the same regardless of place of birth.  However, a much higher rate of interventions such as episiotomy, vacuum extraction, cesarean section, and drugs was commonly found in the hospital group.  Another important outcome that was different was client satisfaction.  Women who birthed in birth centers or at home were more satisfied with their birth experiences than women who birthed in the hospital.

CPMs care for normal, healthy pregnancies only. Prevention and early identification of risk factors are key aspects of our care. Throughout your pregnancy and prenatal care, your midwives will check you and your baby to ensure you remain low-risk.  During labor, you and your baby are monitored closely to ensure everyone’s wellbeing, and that labor is progressing normally. There are situations that are better handled at the hospital, and on these occasions we do not hesitate to transfer your care, and remain with you for the birth.  In the event of a transfer, we are less than one mile from Bridgton Hospital, or in a less urgent transfer we go to the hospital of your choice.