Your Pregnancy and Birth Experiences Matter More Than You May Think
Your pregnancy and birth aren’t isolated events—they set the stage for your postpartum experience. The care provider you choose can make a massive difference, from how your birth unfolds to the support you get during recovery. This is especially true for natural mamas seeking a birth experience outside mainstream norms. Picking someone who truly aligns with your values and goals can make your postpartum journey smoother, safer, and more empowering.
Unfortunately, many women overlook this step, sticking with the OB they’ve always seen. But your pregnancy deserves intentional choices.
Here are some tips for getting started with finding the perfect care provider for you:
Do Your Homework
Explore your options: OBs or midwives? OBs approach birth medically; midwives see it as a normal, natural process. Ask friends, join local mom groups, and request recommendations from people whose birth experiences match what you hope for. For example, if you want an unmedicated birth, be specific.
Not all midwives are created equal
Ask potential providers about their approach: medical vs. midwifery model. In South Jersey, nurse midwives often lean more medical than traditional midwives. Knowing the difference helps you choose someone aligned with your philosophy.
Consider your birth preferences
Planning a natural birth, water birth, or home birth? Or leaning toward a hospital? Look for providers and birth centers known for supporting your choices.
A few local options:
Midwifery Birth and Wellness Center
Lifecycle Wellness and Birth Center
Schedule interviews
Meet potential providers in person. Ask questions, observe their communication style, and trust your instincts. You’re hiring them—they should support you, not the other way around. I remember sitting across from a midwife whose calm energy immediately put me at ease, versus another provider who seemed rushed and dismissive. That moment alone told me everything I needed to know.
Ask about unmedicated birth experience
Even if you plan a medicated birth, knowing your provider can support natural options is important. Ask about intervention rates, philosophy, and hands-on experience with unmedicated births. One of my clients chose a hospital OB after interviewing several midwives—she felt confident knowing her provider respected her preferences and had experience supporting natural births.
communication style Matters
You want someone who listens, respects your preferences, and makes you feel safe. Pay attention to their vibe—if it feels dismissive or controlling, keep looking. Another tip: take notes during consultations. It may feel silly, but you’ll thank yourself later when you’re comparing options and trying to remember which provider said what.
Trust your instincts
This is my #1 piece of advice for anything mom-related: you know what’s best for you. If something doesn’t feel right, keep searching until you find a fit that does.
Choosing the right care provider isn’t just about pregnancy—it’s about setting up a postpartum that feels supportive, empowering, and manageable. Thoughtful planning now gives you a better chance at the recovery, energy, and mental health you deserve in those first months with your baby.
Extra tip: If you’re feeling overwhelmed with all the options, create a simple spreadsheet. List each provider, their approach, experience, and your gut feelings. It may seem nerdy, but it helps you make a clear, confident decision without getting lost in all the noise.
If you want to go further in supporting your postpartum naturally, head to my website and grab my free guide, Placenta Encapsulation 101. Learn how this simple, evidence-backed practice can help stabilize your mood, boost energy, and make your fourth trimester a little easier. You’ve got this—you’re already taking the right steps.
