What complications can be handled in the Birth Center?

Our CNMs and medical staff are prepared to manage complications of birth, including the following:

Postpartum hemorrhage – Excessive bleeding can be treated by the CNM with the same drugs that are used in the hospital.  If necessary, an IV can also be started.  When required, the nurse-midwife will transfer the stabilized mother via ambulance to the hospital.  (See Statistics section.)

Infant resuscitation – If the baby is having difficulty breathing, the CNM and staff are trained to resuscitate, suction and intubate the baby to establish an airway.  The Birth Center has the necessary medications and euqipment to stabilize the infant for transport to the hospital via ambulance.

Tears – CNMs are trained to repair tears and episiotomies with a local anestetic.  Episiotomies are done only as needed.

What cannot be done in the Birth Center?

The following conditions require hospitalization:

Anesthesia – We do not use anesthesia or excessive pain medications in labor because they depress the baby.  We lavishly use coaching and support for the mother-to-be and her family so that labor, while challenging, is a good experience for all.  On the rare occasion when more extensive pain relief is needed, the CNM will transport the mother to the hospital where anesthesia can be administered safely.  Xylocaine, a local anesthetic, is available, however, for the repair of a tear or episiotomy.

Forceps or C-Section delivery – These procedures are done by physicians in the hospital, if needed.

Pitocin induction or augmentation – Because this requires continuous electronic fetal monitoring and immediate access to surgical delivery, you must be delivered in the hospital.