Continuity of Care
A study on The contribution of continuity of midwifery care to high-quality maternity care Professor Jane Sandall CBE, highlighted are many benefits to women having midwifery lead and women-centered care, writes Maria Saunders of Restorative Birth Services.
Midwives have a significant impact in contributing to highly safe and effective patient-centered care that is timely and efficient. Midwives have wonderful skills in efficiently organizing women's care, resources, and are responsive to the needs of women.
A key focus of midwifery “with a woman”
Midwives provide evidence-based care, which is woman-centered which involves facilitating and supporting women in informed decision making, feeling safe, respected, treating women with dignity, and whilst listening to women's voices.
Accessibility and equitable, due to Covid 19 restrictions can be increasingly challenging as antenatal and parent education is being canceled or rescheduled. Midwives, including myself, can provide high-quality education and positive outcomes to help women through midwifery care.
A key focus of midwifery “with a woman” empowers women on their natural abilities-to experience birth with minimal interventions, monitoring mum and baby, a need for a safe pregnancy and delivery.
A positive birth experience and pregnancy include all aspects of a woman’s health, physical, spiritual, and social wellbeing. A package of care that includes, individualized education and support.
Being cared for by a trusted midwife-including follow-up support, breastfeeding support, and parental and infant care. These services include annual gynecological exams, family planning, and preconception care, prenatal care, labor and delivery support, newborn care, and menopausal management.
Benefits of receiving midwifery care
According to the American College of Nurse-Midwives, benefits of receiving midwifery care.
Decreased risk of needing a cesarean.
Reduced rates of labour induction and augmentation.
Reduced use of regional anesthesia.
Decreased infant mortality rates.
Decreased risk of preterm birth.
Decreased third and fourth-degree perineal tears.
Lower costs for both clients and insurers.
Increased chances of having a positive start to breastfeeding.
Increased satisfaction with the quality of care.
