Reviews of Madawaska Valley Midwives (Hospital)

Anthony Ray Shields

Like many military families we were posted to CFB Petawawa and with no family doctors available were suggested to use the Madawaska Valley Midwives to oversee the pregnancy and birth of our child. This was a disaster. It began reasonably well with my wife attending the monthly meetings but there was limited coordination between the midwives and the hospital for any issues where you actually needed assistance. This came to a head with delivery when our son was at an angle complicating the birth. Despite going to hospital for the ultrasound (which showed the issue) the midwives did not read the report. My wife went into labour and we called but despite assuring us of arriving "after work" they didn't arrive to provide care until 12 hours after the water broke. They remained either willfully ignorant or purposefully pushing their agenda of unmedicated home births. We had been explicate in our desire for a hospital birth and assured by the Madawaska Valley Midwives that our choice of birth location would be respected. At the hospital the professionalism of their members and organization during the birth process was so poor that I am loathe to remember it. In short, failing to provide pain relief despite multiple request, not knowing the equipment and how to use it, and using a cell phone during contractions for personal matters all left what could have been a loving memory a disgrace. I am extremely thankful we were at the hospital where the nurses and doctors could provide the necessary expert advice and support. Needless to say we will never be using this organization again and I would under no circumstances recommend it to anyone else.

Elizabeth Lance

I can confidently say after having worked in an agressive, male-dominated field for over a decade that it was my birth experience with the midwives that was by far more patronizing and dehumanizing than anything I have experienced to date. They would dismiss, ignore, or argue with me about my choices (even when the words "no" and "stop" were clearly used); they repeatedly violated hospital policies for personal, non-medical reasons (despite safety/sanitary/privacy issues); and more I would rather forget (but I have witnesses and real-time documentation should anyone doubt this review). When I was preparing my formal complaint I discovered the public registry shows this is not the first time issues have been reported to their governing body (CMO). If any good can come of this shockingly unprofessional experience, it can be to share what I wish I had known: have hardcopies of your birth plan on hand, never assume that if they ask you questions they will write down your responses, and don’t be afraid to ask for transfer of care at any point. The PRH team was great; I was glad they were there and I wish I had them throughout the process.

Karen S

I was lucky enough to be under the care of the MV Midwives for the pregnancy and birth of my last child. I was well informed of all my choices during every stage of my pregnancy, and was never rushed during my prenatal appointments. During my labour and birth, the midwives were incredibly encouraging and helped create a calm environment where I felt safe and supported. The home visits for the first two weeks after my baby's birth were so convenient and allowed me and my family to focus on snuggling our brand new baby instead of stressing about trying to get out of the house. I highly recommend the MV Midwives to any expecting parents!

Alyssa K.

I had a wonderful experience with the MV midwives with both of my children. The prenatal care was phenomenal and the midwives were very knowledgeable. Most importantly they made my labour experience something that I am proud of. Although my original birth plan was unable to occur due to no circumstances at the midwives, they were open, honest and ensure that the rest of my birth plan was adhered to. I highly recommend the Madawaska Valley Midwives.