Best Midwives in Irvine

Introduction to Midwifery in Irvine

Overview of Midwifery as a Healthcare Profession

Midwifery is a healthcare profession that focuses on providing care to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

Midwives offer a unique approach that emphasizes natural childbirth and personalized care.

Importance of Midwifery in Modern Healthcare

Midwifery care is associated with lower rates of cesarean sections and other interventions.

Midwives often work collaboratively with obstetricians to provide comprehensive maternity care.

Midwifery Services in Irvine

Irvine offers a range of midwifery services, from hospital-based to independent practices.

Based on our data, there are at least 16 midwives practicing in Irvine, providing diverse options for expectant mothers.

Choosing a Midwife in Irvine

Understanding Midwifery Services in Irvine

Overview of midwifery care

• Definition and scope of midwifery practice
• Benefits of choosing a midwife for prenatal care and delivery

Midwifery options in Irvine

• Hospital-based midwives
• Birth center midwives
• Home birth midwives

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Midwife

Qualifications and Certifications

• Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM) credentials
• Additional certifications and specializations

Experience and Expertise

• Years of practice
• Number of births attended
• Specializations in high-risk pregnancies or specific birth methods

Patient Reviews and Ratings

• Importance of star ratings and review counts
• Analyzing patient feedback for comprehensive understanding

Hospital Affiliations

• Importance of hospital privileges
• Considering preferred birthing locations

Steps in the Midwife Selection Process

Research and Initial Screening

• Utilizing online resources and directories
• Considering recommendations from healthcare providers or friends

Consultations and Interviews

• Scheduling initial meetings with potential midwives
• Preparing questions about their practice and philosophy

Evaluating Personal Compatibility

• Assessing communication style and rapport
• Ensuring alignment with your birth preferences and values

Top-Rated Midwives in Irvine

Lisa Sherwood

Qualifications and Experience

• 5-star rating with 1 review
• Graduated from University of Southern California Medical School in 1999
• Speaks English and Spanish

Practice Information

• Hospital affiliations: Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo and MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center
• Contact: (949) 829-5500

Lorri Walker

Rating and Reviews

• 5-star rating with 3 reviews

Practice Information

• Contact: (949) 654-2727

Heidi Pfaff

Qualifications and Experience

• Multiple specialties: Midwifery, Nursing (Nurse Practitioner), Obstetrics & Gynecologic Nursing (Nurse Practitioner)
• Masters of Science (2009) from San Diego State University
• Undergraduate degree from Trinity Western University (1998)

Practice Information

• Hospital affiliation: Kaiser Permanente Orange County-Anaheim Medical Center
• Contact: (888) 988-2800

Additional Resources for Finding Midwives in Irvine

Online Directories and Review Platforms

Healthgrades

• Comprehensive listings of midwives in Irvine
• Access to patient reviews and ratings
• Detailed provider profiles including education and hospital affiliations

California Nurse-Midwives Association (CNMA)

• Directory of certified nurse-midwives in California
• Information on midwifery practices and standards

Local Healthcare Networks

Hospital Affiliations

• Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo
• MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center
• Kaiser Permanente Orange County-Anaheim Medical Center

OB-GYN Practices

• Referrals to affiliated midwives
• Information on collaborative care models

Community Resources

Local Birthing Centers

• Information on midwifery services
• Opportunities to meet midwives in person

Prenatal Classes and Support Groups

• Networking with other expectant parents
• Recommendations for local midwives