More women across the U.S. are choosing certified midwives to guide them through pregnancy and childbirth, especially when their pregnancies are considered low-risk. Brandy Brey, founder of Wholesome Birth Services in Salem, Wisconsin, represents a growing shift toward natural, empowering care from qualified professionals.
“We trust birth. We trust women’s wisdom,” Brey explains.
Who Qualifies for a Low-Risk Pregnancy?
- Single fetus
- No chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension)
- No previous high-risk pregnancy complications
- Healthy BMI and lifestyle
- Spontaneous labor at term
Benefits of Choosing a Midwife for a Low-Risk Birth
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Continuity of Care | Consistent support from the same provider before, during, and after birth. |
| Natural Birth Advocacy | Focus on natural pain relief and minimizing interventions. |
| Lower Intervention Rates | Reduced likelihood of cesarean, induction, or episiotomy. |
| Cost Savings | The average cost is around $4,000, including prenatal and postpartum care. |
Meet Brandy Brey: A Certified Midwife Making a Difference
Brandy Brey is the only certified midwife in Kenosha County, Wisconsin. She is licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services and nationally certified through NARM. Her journey into midwifery began after choosing a home birth for her second child and has since supported over 180 births in the region.
“That’s for our protection and the families’ protection,” she says about licensure.
Safety: What the Data Says
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), midwife-assisted births—especially in home and birthing center settings—are associated with:
- Fewer low birth weight deliveries
- Lower preterm birth rates
- Fewer unnecessary interventions
This is mainly because midwives work only with low-risk pregnancies and refer patients to obstetricians when complications arise.
Comparing Midwives vs. OB/GYNs for Low-Risk Births
| Factor | Midwife | OB/GYN |
|---|---|---|
| Specialization | Low-risk pregnancies | High-risk care & surgery |
| Birth Setting | Home, birth center, hospital | Primarily hospital |
| Approach | Natural, patient-led | Medicalized, intervention-ready |
| Average Cost | ~$4,000 | $10,000+ |
Pain Management and Support
Midwives do not provide epidurals, but they offer effective natural pain management techniques, including:
- Water immersion (birth tubs)
- Breathing and mindfulness techniques
- Positioning and mobility
- Massage and continuous labor support
Midwifery Credentials Matter
It’s essential to work with a licensed, certified midwife. Ensure yours is:
- Certified nationally
- Licensed in your state
- Connected to a care network or hospital backup
Why More Families Are Choosing Midwives
- Desire for personalized care and attention
- Access to natural birthing environments
- Fewer interventions and more autonomy
How to Find a Certified Midwife Near You
Search through local directories and certification boards. Look for someone with the proper credentials and a birth philosophy that aligns with your goals. You can also explore schools by state to understand local training and licensure requirements.
FAQs About Midwives and Low-Risk Births
Are midwives only for home births?
Many certified midwives practice in hospitals or birth centers.
Is midwife-assisted birth safe?
For low-risk pregnancies, outcomes are as good as or better than hospital births with OBs.
What if there’s an emergency?
Midwives are trained to transfer care if complications arise.
Does insurance cover midwifery?
Many do—especially for Certified Nurse-Midwives. Always verify with your provider.
Can I use both a midwife and an OB?
Yes, especially in collaborative practices or if risk levels change.
Conclusion: A Growing Shift Toward Empowered Birth
Midwives aren’t just a trend but a trusted part of modern maternity care. For those with healthy, low-risk pregnancies, they offer a safe, affordable, and deeply personal option for childbirth.
If you’re considering a career in midwifery, explore your options by checking out nurse-midwife salaries or browsing accredited programs by state.