Pregnancy often begins with questions. Who will really listen? What will labor be like? Will my preferences be respected if plans change?
At the Maternal Care Center at Shady Grove, midwifery care is designed to meet families where they are—offering time, education, and support from the first prenatal visit through life at home with a newborn.
What Midwifes Offer
Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) are advanced practice nurses trained in prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum recovery, and newborn care. They provide routine visits, attend births, prescribe medications, and guide families through every stage of the journey.
Families notice the difference: appointments feel less rushed, conversations go deeper, and questions are encouraged. Midwives emphasize education, shared decision-making, and emotional support.
Integrated, Team Based Care
Midwives at the Maternal Care Center work alongside obstetricians, nurses, and specialists. This team approach combines personalized attention with seamless access to hospital resources and specialist, just steps away if needed. If a pregnancy becomes high-risk or complications arise, midwives coordinate closely with the broader care team.
“At the heart of our midwifery program is a commitment to personalized, family-centered care," said Lill Baez Hull, assistant nurse manager of the Maternal Care Center. "Our midwives build trusted relationships with patients, empowering them to make informed decisions while providing the peace of mind that comes from having access to the comprehensive resources of Shady Grove Medical Center.”
Prenatal Visits
Prenatal visits with a midwife include guidance on physical changes, nutrition, movement, wellness, birth preferences, and pain management options. Midwifery care supports a full range of comfort measures, from natural techniques to epidurals and other medications.
Labor and Delivery
During labor, midwives provide continuous support while monitoring both parent and baby. They encourage movement, breathing techniques, and position changes. If medical intervention is necessary, midwives collaborate seamlessly with physicians and specialists, keeping families informed every step of the way.
Postpartum and Newborn Care
Support continues after delivery, including guidance on physical recovery, emotional well-being, infant feeding, and newborn care. This continuity helps families feel confident and prepared as they transition home.
Is Midwifery Right for You?
Midwifery care can benefit first-time parents and growing families alike. Families may meet several midwives during prenatal care, helping build familiarity with the team who may be present during birth.
At the Maternal Care Center, comfort, safety, and family connection are priorities. Midwifery care creates a birth experience that honors personal choices while ensuring health and safety.
If you are considering midwifery care or want to learn more about maternity services at the center, explore your options and ask questions. Our team is here to support you every step of the way: Maternal Care Center at Shady Grove.
Midwifery FAQs
