Safety
considerations for safety at home
Community Standards
As a licensed midwife, I follow Madison’s community standards of care in addition to the State of Wisconsin’s legislated standards, established by the National Association of Certified Professional Midwives (NACPM). With a strong village of skilled midwives and supportive nurses, hospital midwives, physicians, and EMTs, Madison’s home birthing families are well cared for. Our community actively works to maintain integral relationships and processes, promoting collaborative communication and continuity of care. Coordinated efforts such as a strategically streamlined hospital transfer process, ensure appropriate, effective care.
improved outcomes with skilled midwifery care
Licensure
The Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) credential is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and granted by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) upon successful completion of a competency-based evaluation process, including final board examination.
Licensure (LM) is granted to CPMs and CNMs by the State of Wisconsin. Licensed midwives must participate in continuing education and peer performance reviews, and practice within state statutes.
starting at home
Prevention
Starting at home is preventive, proactive care that optimizes your health. Family-led prenatal care emphasizing nutrition, whole body wellness, and informed choices helps to maintain a healthy, low-risk pregnancy. I offer all recommended testing and screenings, including ordering ultrasounds. During our time together, communication and a trusting relationship are key as you have constant access to your midwife and enjoy longer, 1-on-1 appointments.
first line response at home
Emergency Skills
Emergency response is limited at home but similar to first line response in the hospital for both birthing folks and babes. A second qualified birth attendant is with us at birth time, and both of us are certified in Neonatal Resuscitation and Provider Adult and Infant CPR. As a Licensed Midwife, I participate in continuing education and trainings for emergency skills and managing complications.
tools I carry to births
Equipment
As a licensed midwife, I carry the following to all births:
Anti-hemorrhagic medications
(Pitocin, Cytotec, Methergine, TXA)
IV fluids
Oxygen & equipment to administer
Infant resuscitation bag & mask
Infant suctioning equipment
Pulse oximeter
Suturing equipment & Lidocaine
IV antibiotics
Doppler ultrasound (fetal heart tones monitoring)
when the hospital is needed
Transfer
Should any complications occur that are beyond my resources, hospital care is truly necessary and appreciative. When that happens, I am grateful we have good hospitals to transfer to with supportive staff meeting us there. Most transfers are non-emergent and happen by car. When emergent care is needed, EMT response is smooth and respectful. I stay by your side throughout as support.
North American Registry of Midwives
professional organization credentialing and overseeing CPMs
professional organization for Licensed Midwives offering community midwifery care in Wisconsin
Wisconsin Legislation for Licensed Midwives
state legislation Chapters SPS 180-189, rules and regulations for the practice of Licensed Midwifery in Wisconsin
National Association of Certified Professional Midwives
professional organization representing and supporting CPMs
United Nations agency dedicated to international public health, including maternal health
the leading database for systematic reviews in health care, reviewing safety of planned home birth (updated 2023)
Wisconsin Association for Perinatal Care
organization strengthening midwifery care globally through standardizing evidence-based care and training
International Confederation of Midwives
organization strengthening midwifery care globally through standardizing evidence-based care and training