Psalm 139:13-15NIV
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth...
Consultation: I encourage you and your family to meet with me. A typical consultation lasts about an hour. This informal meeting allows us to start getting to know each other and see if we "click". During this time I’ll share my experiences, explain available services, and give you time to ask questions. The cost of this visit is $50.00, which will be taken off of your total homebirth fee if you choose to use my services. Meet Jeni...
The Standard Homebirth Package includes:Extra Costs Not Included in Standard Package:
Waivers are available for tests you choose to decline after careful
consideration.
~ Prenatal Blood Work
~
Chlamydia & Gonorrhea Screening
~ Group B Strep Testing
~ Repeat Gestational Diabetes Testing (if needed)
~ Ultrasound
~ Pap Smear
~ Additional Lab Work (if needed)
~ Biophysical Profile or Non-Stress Tests
~ Birth Supplies
~ Birthing Tub
~ State Mandated Tests for Baby
~ Physician/Hospital/Ambulance Fees if Transport is Necessary
~ Supplements (iron, evening primrose oil, red raspberry and such)
You may have anyone you desire at your birth, including siblings, friends, and
family.
Once
the baby is born, he or she goes directly into Mom’s arms. There is usually no rush to clamp or cut the
umbilical cord.
I’ll help mother and baby with initial breastfeeding and give your family time
to bond.
After the birth, I make sure you have something to eat, examine you and the baby, and assist in the clean up process. I stay as long as is needed after the birth (at least 2 hours) to be certain both mother and baby are stable.
I’ll explain what to expect after birth and am available 24 hours a day to address any concerns that may arise. I will file the paperwork for your child's birth certificate and Social Security Number.
Jeni Rector, LM, CPM is a Virginia Medicaid
provider.
Waterbirth and hydrotherapy are encouraged during labor. 85% of our ladies use some form of hydrotherapy. I am experienced with waterbirth from both inside and outside the tub.
Some frequently asked questions:
Is the tub too heavy for a
second-floor apartment?
No, weight is not a problem in any normally sturdy building. Most concerns
about weight (such as pianos and waterbeds) is that they are a long-term stress
on the structure. Birthing tubs are a very short-term stress.
How big is the
tub?
The AquaDoula is
54" diameter, 24" deep, 175 gallon capacity, with
heater
How long does it take to set up the
tub?
For someone who has actually read through the instructions carefully, it takes
about 30 minutes to set up. Time to fill it with water depends on your
water pressure, water temperature and water heater capacity.
How much space does it take up when
not set up?
The AquaDoulas come in plastic containers so that you can keep everything in a
safe and handy place.
Where
should I put it?
That is completely up to you. Some things to consider are privacy,
temperature, sturdiness of the floor, and the floor covering (carpet vs.
non-carpet, such as tile or linoleum - non-carpet is usually colder, but
waterproof, although that's not usually an issue if you place a tarp under the
tub). If you're planning to give birth in the tub, it is important for the tub
to be accessible from all sides - ideally, leave a space of 2-3 feet all around
the tub. If you're planning to use the tub for labor only, it can be placed
somewhere with more limited access. Make sure you like the location before
filling the tub!!
How do I fill the tub?
FIRST, make SURE that you DO NOT have the heater
plugged in UNTIL the water level in the tub is above the top of the heater.
If you don’t do this, you WILL melt the liner and the heater OR cause a fire.
SECOND, start filling the tub with straight hot water from the faucet. Once the water runs cool, turn it
off and wait for the water heater to recover. Once the water heater has
recovered, start filling again. You want to keep the temperature of the
water at around 100 degrees F. Once you get it filled and at the desired
temp, plug the heater in. Place the black foam cover over the top to keep
the water warm and protected.
LASTLY, DO NOT use any electrical appliances while you are laboring in the tub!
My role is to support and
guide you through your pregnancy and birth. I provide information and education.
This allows you to actively participate in your own care, make informed
decisions and take responsibility for your own health. I encourage your family
to participate in your care as much as you are comfortable.
I have found that when your family participates in your
care during the pregnancy they feel more relaxed and secure when I arrive for
your birth.
Prenatal Visits: Visits usually last thirty minutes. This allows
plenty of time to talk, answer questions and discuss your concerns. I want you
to feel prepared for childbirth, breastfeeding and parenting. Prenatal
visits include checking your blood pressure and urine, listening to
baby’s heartbeat, palpating the baby’s position and measuring your baby’s
growth.
Home Prenatal Visits: For an additional fee ($500.00) I
will come to your home for all appointments throughout your pregnancy and
postpartum period. Many women appreciate this option (especially those
with small children). These
appointments are just like the prenatal visits listed above, except that they
are in your own home.
Appointment Scheduling:
I believe in Apprenticeship Training. Therefore, I work with a team of student midwives
that act as my assistants. They are exceptional women, who have the same
beliefs and ideas that I have about the birthing process. We all believe it is a normal, natural and safe
journey.