Pregnancy and childbirth involve every part of you. Your deepest feelings, hopes, fears, physical and practical needs, and your spiritual or religious beliefs can all affect your pregnancy and the birth of your child. I believe in you and in the birthing process. I've learned from experiences and education that most mothers have everything they need to bring a child into this world safely.

My own entry into this world happened a lot quicker than was expected. It was so quick, in fact, that my mother didn't have time to go to the hospital as she had done with my two brothers. So, I was born at home, without the use of drugs and without the assistance of a doctor.

As a teenager, I was fascinated when I learned that many women in America were having their children at home. My interest grew and I began taking health related college classes. I received an Associate of Science from Dixie State College in which the focus of my study was biology, chemistry, medical terminology, and nutrition. I have continued my education taking classes, which include human anatomy, microbiology, and physiology, most of which had hands-on, lab centered, learning. I also took a Certified Nurse Assistant course and completed Basic EMT course, which included clinical hours in the Labor and Delivery unit at the hospital. I enjoyed being involved with, and experiencing, the medical community's approach to the birthing process but felt deeply that something was missing.

In the summer of 2002, I began training with Elizabeth Smith, a local midwife (and personal hero of mine), who has been attending since 1985. She has, all together, delivered more than 1400 babies! I worked with her as an assistant through May 2006 attending over 100 births, two of which were sets of twins, who were delivered safely at home. During that time I received training in prenatal care, labor and delivery methods, and postpartum care for mothers and babies. I also worked with women as their Doula to help them achieve their desired natural delivery within a hospital setting. Elizabeth and I continue to assist each other at the deliveries if there is a need for more than one experianced midwife, and provide back up for eachother if one is unavailable at the time of a delivery.

In order to better qualify myself to aid expecting mothers I am continually working on furthering my education. I stay current on Neo-Natal resuscitation, hearing and metabolic screening screening for newborns, CCHD (critical congenital heart defect), attend the Utah Midwives Orginization conferences, and received training on the use of herbs, pharmacology, suturing and other aids with regards to child birth.

In addition to helping women deliver their own children, I, too, have experienced natural childbirth at home. With the assistance of Elizabeth and my husband, my three daughters where born, safely, within the walls and the comfort of my own home. At home I had the support of a few select family members and friends who were present and provided various forms of aid. My birth experiences were intense but peaceful, painful but empowering. In those moments, powerful bonds of love where formed and I felt myself grow stronger. I became something more than I was previously. I cherish those moments. They are among the best I’ve ever had.

I believe that women (parents) have the right to decide where and with whom they will have their children. I have learned that birth is a safe, natural process, that when left to follow its natural course, in most cases, results in much better outcomes. I love working with expectant mothers, and assisting where needed at their deliveries. Each one is a unique and sacred experience for me and I feel very privileged to be in attendance.

I’m happy you’re here. I’m excited for you to meet your baby! I’d love to meet and talk about some of your options, should you choose to have your baby at home or naturally in the hospital.

Thank you,

Janae