A: The first birth I ever attended was that of my daughter in 1995. To say the least, it was a transforming experience for me! I wanted to create more options for women to have that same incredibly powerful experience, in a safe, comfortable environment.
Q: What sort of midwifery training do you have?
A: I completed a 2 year apprenticeship, followed by a 2 year internship with a total of 4 registered midwives. I completed my training through the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM), and received my credentials as a Certified Professional Midwife. I am registered to practice in the State of Colorado. Each year I attend continuing education classes and meet for a regular peer review process. I am also certified in Neonatal Resuscitation and CPR.
Q: Who attends births with you?
A: I like to have at least one trained birth assistant present at each birth. I am currently working with several assistants, all of them are qualified to assist me. You will have an oppourtunity to meet with each of them, and decide who you feel most comfortable with. Your comfort is an important factor to me!
Q: What do you do with the mess?
A: I actually get this question a lot! We make every attempt to cover your furniture and floors with protective coverings as you give birth. After the birth my assistant and I will get you comfortably settled in a bath or shower and thoroughly clean the birth space. We take out your trash and run a load of laundry for you if necessary. You will be amazed how great it looks when you come back!
Q: How long are you there?
A: I like to stay in close contact with you when you believe labor has begun. I will usually arrive at your house when your contractions have picked up in frequency and intensity, your water has broken, or you would like my support. I typically stay 3 hours or so after the birth of your baby, as long as everyone is resting comfortably. I will return within 24 hours to check up on you, unless you have concerns and need me sooner.
Q: What if 2 women go into labor at the same time?
A: This is unlikely as I make every attempt to keep my practice small. I do not take more than 4 women due in any one month, and no one due on the same day. However, if this should happen, I have a good working relationship with several other midwives in town, whom you can meet before hand, and I would make arrangements for one of them to attend your birth in my place.
Q: What if I have something "happened"?
A: Contrary to popular belief, life threatening situations rarely happen instantly. I carefully monitor you during pregnancy and labor for any possible signs of fetal distress, etc. If at any time I suspect you or your baby may be in danger, I would immediately accompany you to the nearest hospital and act as your advocate as emergency measures were taken. I carry with me oxygen, resuscitation equipment, smelling salts, and anti-hemmorhage remedies which are usually sufficient to deal with most minor "emergencies". In a major emergency I would first stabilize you or your baby and have my assitant call ahead to the hospital. We would either transport you by car or ambulance and I would remain with you, transferring your charts, as you are treated by an MD.
Q: What complications have you seen?
A: A variety of situations have presented themselves during my experience, all with happy results, including shoulder dystocia, cord around the neck, newborn resuscitation, placental abruption, hemorrhage, suprise twins and breech presentation!
Q: What about the birth certificate?
A: I file all of the appropriate paper work, including the birth certificate and social security info.
Q: What insurance do you accept?
A: I accept all insurance, in theory...the question is whether or not they will accept me! Most PPO plans will pay a large portion of my fees, as long as you call ahead and get permission to use an out-of-network licensed midwife. I require that you pay in full by 34 weeks gestation, you will then be reimbursed with what ever your insurance company will cover after the birth of your baby.
Q: Are you confortable with Water birth?
A: Yes! I personally attend several water births per month, and highly encourage women to consider utilizing the pain relieving properties of water. I have water proof equipment, which makes giving birth in the water safe and easy. My clients are able to use one of my standard labor pools for no additional cost, and can reserve an upgraded pool for a small fee. Visit my waterbirth page for more info, and be sure to check out Waterbirth.com
Jessica Nipp
Registered and Certified Midwife
7175 Delmonico Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80919
(719) 661-9028
homebirth information packets, and a complimentary interview.
Please call or email for more information:
HolisticHomeBirth@yahoo.com