Frequently Asked Questions

Following are some of the most important questions we have been asked over the years.  Please think about this carefully, and understand what we are offering at our birth centre.  The Lucina Midwives are committed to helping families who are also fully committed to birthing with us at our birth centre.  We always have a long waiting list of families who want to deliver with us here, and so if you are undecided, or if you find that you would prefer to be at a hospital, other midwives would be pleased to care for you.

Q:  Are there obstetricians/pediatricians at the Centre?

A: No.  If the need arises during a delivery, we arrange a transfer to a hospital.  We have admitting privileges at the Sturgeon and we are in close proximity to the Misericordia. 

Q:  Can I have an epidural?

A:  Not at the Birth Centre.  It is important that you prepare for an unmedicated labour.  If you feel you want the option of an epidural, perhaps seeing a doctor is your best choice.  Certainly there are circumstances that arise during a labour, in which case we will transfer with you to a hospital and continue there. 

Q:  What kind of pain relief is available?

A:  Women who choose midwifery care also choose natural childbirth.  Through the pregnancy you become well prepared for delivery.  Methods such as hypno-birthing and various relaxation techniques help achieve this.  During labour the use of water (hydrotherapy) is well-documented to decrease the need for epidurals. Over the decade that we practiced at the small hospital in Stony Plain the majority of women had a waterbirth.

Q. How many people can be in the birthing room?

A. Although there is no limit, we suggest that you bring no more than two people with you as support. There will also be two midwives present in the room during the birth. Friends and family may visit after the birth however, your stay at the birth centre will be short so it may be better for them to visit you at home after you've had a chance to rest.  

If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .