Midwives in Ontario view birth as a normal physiological process and provide comprehensive care to childrearing women. Midwives recognize that childbearing is often a profound event in the lives of women and their families. Midwives offer personalized prenatal care, respect for clients and encouragement in making informed choices. We attend women throughout pregnancy and birth and in the postpartum period. Midwives assist women in adjusting to parenthood, while respecting their choices and values.In Ontario, the midwifery practice model reflects three core principles: Continuity of care: Midwives provide 24-hour coverage for all clients in their practice, during pregnancy, birth and for six weeks after the birth. Informed decision-making: An exchange of information is provided through a relaxed and non-authoritarian approach. Choice of birthplace: Our clients may choose to give birth at home, in hospital or at the birth centre. Midwives are comfortable attending women in either setting.Midwives Scope of PracticeMidwives are primary caregivers and are able to monitor your pregnancy, order laboratory work, obstetrical ultrasounds and can prescribe certain medications for normal pregnancies. Adequate prenatal assessment is recommended for all women preparing for birth. This will help to safeguard your health as well as providing an opportunity for you to learn more about your body and that of your baby’s as pregnancy progresses. During your pregnancy, you are seen monthly until 28 weeks, after which you will be seen twice a month until 36 weeks and then weekly until the birth of your baby. Midwives are professionally trained in providing care to low risk childbearing women. When care is outside their scope of practice, a consultation/referral is made to an appropriate professional. If care is transferred to a specialist, we will stay with our client to provide supportive care, while they continue in active labour.