Midwives of Sudbury

The World Health Organization defines a midwife in this way: «She must be able to give the necessary supervision, care and advice to women during pregnancy, labour and the postpartum periods, to conduct deliveries on her own responsibility and to care for the newborn infant. This care includes preventative measures, the detections of abnormal conditions in mother and child, the procurement of medical assistance and the execution of emergency measures in the absence of medical help. She has an important task in health counselling and education, not only for the patients, but also within the family and community. The work should involve antenatal education and preparation for parenthood, and extends to certain areas of gynaecology, family planning and child care. She may practice in hospitals, clinics, health units, domiciliary conditions, or in any other service.» . The Midwifery Act is a component of the Regulated Health Professions Act, which was proclaimed on January 1st, 1994. A person may only practice as a midwife in Ontario if registered with the College of Midwives of Ontario. Midwifery care is publicly funded through the Ontario Ministry of Health, and there is no additional cost for women.