Doctor, Midwife, Doula: What is Available in the Rainy River District: ♥️ From a Homesteading Doula

You’re pregnant—excited, scared, and unsure where to turn. You’ve heard stories about others' births, or perhaps you have your own past experience and want something different this time.

I’ve gathered information just for you!

You deserve to know that you have choices in planning your prenatal care. I spoke with Elder Midwife Elaine Ross, the only local midwife in LaVerendrye General Hospital. She attends births alongside a doctor and is passionate about providing traditional care. You can contact her at 807-276-3666—she would be delighted to answer your questions.

I also reached out to the Kenora Midwives, who are open to clients from this area, provided you're willing to drive to Kenora for your appointments and during labor. You can choose to give birth at the hospital or rent an Airbnb while you wait for your baby to arrive. For more information, visit www.kenoramidwives.com or call 807-468-8510.

I have attended births with Dr. Jenks and Dr. Arneson at Fort Frances Hospital, and two other doctors at Riverside Health Care also attend births. Most doctors will provide prenatal care.

As your doula, I am committed to making your birth experience as peaceful and natural as you desire, no matter where you choose to give birth. 

At one birth I attended at Riverside Health Care Facility, the mother brought string lights and a diffuser. The baby arrived with the lights dimmed and soothing music playing in the background. Another mother, with no extra items, came with quiet inner strength and birthed a 10-pound baby without medication—her experience was beautifully peaceful. This could be your experience too!

One mama had a traumatic first birth and struggled with postpartum depression. However, her second birth was much better, and she experienced no postpartum mood disorders afterward. A hospital birth can be beautiful, and these mothers were incredible!

Helping mothers feel heard and reassured about what is normal allows them to relax and enables their bodies to do what they are designed to do. 

As your doula, I don’t provide medical care. I’m here to support you—rubbing your back and feet, filling your cup, reminding you of your inner strength and coping techniques, and guiding you through contractions. I’ll stay with you for your entire labor and birth and  assist with proper latching afterward. I won’t leave due to a shift change. If you’d like, I’m also open to riding to Kenora with you for the birth.

While I haven't had the chance to work alongside Elaine Ross yet, I look forward to that opportunity.

I will help make your birth one you’re proud of, leaving you feeling empowered and capable of anything. 

Now that you know your options in the Rainy River District, I hope you can choose what’s best for you. Your body is designed to give birth, and I believe in you.

Please share this with a friend!