Midwifery services come to Lafayette

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - Pregnant women in Greater Lafayette have a new option when it comes to the delivery of their children. Certified Nurse Midwife Sharon Smith is now practicing at Clarian Arnett. Smith said midwives offer comprehensive care for a woman, from prenatal through post-partum.

"As people become new parents there are just lots of questions and lots of things they never thought about. So we are trying to help them have enough information that they can make the right choices for them," Smith said.

Smith said midwives try to make the birthing process as natural as possible. If complications develop, Smith can turn to doctors on staff for consultation or medical help. Nurses like Morgan Yerk work alongside Smith in the delivery room. She likes the way Smith and her patients interact.

"They had a really good relationship and communication. Sharon would kind of access her needs and see what is good for her, kind of make some suggestions," Yerk said.

Suggestions like, using the birthing ball, a soothing shower, or a squat bar.

"We're going to encourage them to get out of the bed, get upright walking, using a variety of positions. The more a woman can move around, the easier it is to cope with the pain," Smith said.

Smith said the ultimate goal is to let the woman have an active role in making choices for a healthy, safe delivery.

To learn more about Midwifery services, you can attend Dining with a Doc featuring Sharon Smith on Tuesday, November 17th at 6 p.m
To reserve a seat at the dinner call 448-8846 by Monday morning.