Birth centers

August 30, 2019

How well are you aware of Birth centers?

Even if you are not going to be questioned about Birth centers, it is better to know they are! If you are aware of them, you will be able to make the right decision when the need arises. Or if someone needs help with finding the right center, you will be able to lend a hand. However, to make all these things happen, you should understand what they are. People often confuse these centers to hospitals, even though these terms are entirely different. This center is for pregnant mothers. This is one of the essential places for them because this is where they get care and affection. The wellness model and midwifery will look into these factors with utmost interest. If you have a confusion between hospital and these centers, know that this is a freestanding system.

Important facts about birth centers

Even though it is freestanding, it is not something detached from the health care system. Instead, it is an integral part of the entire health system. The system runs the Birth centers by following a few principles such as sensitivity, suitable medical intervention, cost-effectiveness, prevention, and safety. Of course, things like the practice of midwifery, newborn transition, and mental support will happen in different ways. This is the primary model that you can see in a birth center.

These centers don’t dominate or degrade women because they treat them as they should be addressed. In fact, their belief and values in regards to childbirth are respected and considered necessary. These centers accept that women have the right to make choices about health care. A woman can analyze and evaluate the health care provided for her and her baby. If the woman agrees, she can invite her family over to witness her pregnancy experience. They can participate in birth, postpartum period, and pregnancy. However, the center will consider the people she defines as her family, so it is up to her to make the decision.

What are the five Ps of a birth center?

Have you heard of five Ps? Of course, you would have. But these five Ps are related to the birth centers. Now, let’s check them out:

People-

Low-risk pregnancy among healthy women.
Qualified staff to take care of pregnant women.
Qualified pediatric-obstetric consultants.

Place-

Looks more like home.
Fire and safety measurements, health codes met, and overall a perfect construction.
Fully equipped to offer proper care.

Part of the system-

Access to the newborn unit.
Provides written procedures and policies to ensure quality.
Proper relationship with health agencies.
Readily available referral and transfer.

The practice of Midwifery-

Skilled, qualified, and licensed midwifery service providers.
Proper segregation during pregnancy and childbirth.
Interdependent relationship with acute care services and birth centers.

Program-

Informed consent.
Health and tests counseling.
Allowing family participation as requested by pregnant women.
Program with self-care components.
Accurate plan for payments.
Steady telephone access.
Licensed midwife or nurse.
Offer newborn laboratory screening tests.
Home-office visits as required.
Support during breastfeeding and parenting.

Conclusion

That being said, it is apparent that Birth centers are one of the essential parts of the system. It works in a systemic way. Therefore, pregnant women are treated effectively. As you can see, the Five Ps system makes things easier for the ones who run the centers, while making it clear for the ones who need the service. Furthermore, if you are looking for or suggesting a birth center, be wise enough to do quick research!