Philosophy of Birth

Congratulations! Whether you are pregnant or just thinking about it, considering midwifery care is a great step towards a fulfilling and empowering pregnancy and birth. Homebirth and midwives are proven safe options for childbearing. Most healthy women do not need medications or technology to conceive, birth or grow their babies. With information, support and attentive guidance, a woman will use her inherent wisdom to care for herself and her baby peacefully and powerfully.

I assist families with homebirths including personalized prenatal, postpartum and newborn care. Prenatal visits average a minimum of one hour and are longer based on a family's needs. Unlimited phone consultation is always included in care. I will remain easily accessible to families throughout the prenatal period and beyond; with loving attention, a woman will build trust in her caregivers and strengthen faith in her own abilities.

I am impassioned with helping families achieve the birth experiences they want, surrounded by the people they choose, in the settings they design. Women deserve to be fully informed about their choices in care so they can make decisions that will enhance their health and their lives. Babies are sentient, aware beings who thrive when birthed gently and are cared for lovingly. Families grow closer after experiencing a tranquil birth.

I am committed to providing attentive, personalized midwifery care that includes providing referrals for women to choose caregiver's best suited to their needs. With ongoing, one-to-one communication, a woman is empowered to explore her options and desires, obstacles in and potential for birthing her baby peacefully.

Childbirth is one of the most significant transitions we make as women, and a gentle birth increases confidence, success and JOY in breastfeeding and parenting. I possess unwavering faith that healthy women can safely birth their babies without medical intervention, drugs and mechanical devices. I am committed to providing a service which respects mother's wishes, worries and expectations.

Shannon Pawson, CPM. Serving West Michigan. Phone 616-295-1128