Autonomous | Holistic | Natural
Birth, held gently at home
Laura Slater, LM, CPM — a traditional midwife serving Grand Rapids and the surrounding area since 1980, with a holistic model of care built on trust, education and choice.
Laura Slater
LM, CPM · Midwife since 1980
About
Midwifery is a calling, not a job
I am a traditional Midwife with a holistic model of care. My first thoughts of birthing at home came from my Grandmothers. Collectively they delivered fifteen babies at home. Like many midwives around the world I feel midwifery is my calling.
In 1980 I began my journey as an apprentice in a homebirth practice. My training was empirical and hands on. Since the beginning my goals has not wavered; to help women and their families have choices in how they birth and with whom.
I believe a woman should give birth where she feels the safest and most comfortable. Education is key to being an active participant in decision making during pregnancy and in having a rewarding birth experience.
Now delivering a second generation of babies, I have learned from new families and made friends for life. My client base is centered in Grand Rapids and grows as each of the families I have played my part in expand.
Why use a midwife?
A woman-centered approach to birth
In recent years, home births have experienced a rise in popularity as an alternative to hospital deliveries. Many expectant parents are opting for the intimate and personalized experience of giving birth in the comfort of their own homes. A factor contributing to this trend is the increasing preference for midwives over traditional medical care.
Choosing a midwife for your birth experience reflects a desire for a more patient-centered approach to childbirth. Midwives emphasize the natural process of labor and delivery, creating a supportive environment that values the physical and emotional well-being of the mother. Some families are drawn to the idea of avoiding medical interventions when unnecessary and having greater control over the birthing environment. Home births, facilitated by midwives, offer a more relaxed setting where individuals can tailor their surroundings to suit their preferences, promoting a sense of empowerment and autonomy.
While home births may not be suitable for everyone, the rising popularity of this choice shows a shift in cultural perception of childbirth, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and a more natural, woman-centered approach to the birthing process. As the trend continues, discussions around alternative birthing options and the role of midwives are likely to become increasingly prominent in conversations about maternal healthcare.
Let’s talk about your birth
Consultations are the first step for families considering birthing at home.