We believe the philosophical cornerstones of family-friendly care to be as follows: (adapted from CIMS)

Normalcy of the Birthing Process

Birth is a normal, natural, and healthy process.

Parents and babies have the inherent wisdom necessary for birth.

Babies are aware, sensitive human beings at the time of birth, and should be acknowledged and treated as such.

Breastfeeding provides the optimum nourishment for newborns and infants and should be supported to the best of our abilities.

Empowerment

We are all responsible for creating a sense of connection and empowerment within our Collective and in the community.

A person’s confidence and ability to give birth and to care for their baby can be enhanced or diminished by every care provider they come in contact with. I agree to take this responsibility to heart.

A parent and baby are distinct yet interdependent during pregnancy, birth and infancy. Their interconnectedness is vital and must be respected.

Preparing for pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period after birth are milestone events in the continuum of life. These experiences profoundly affect babies, mothers, fathers, and families, and have important and long-lasting effects on society.

Autonomy

Every parent should have the opportunity to:

Have a healthy and joyous birth experience, regardless of age or circumstances;

Give birth in an environment in which they feel nurtured and secure, and their emotional well-being, privacy and personal preferences are acknowledged;

Have access to accurate information from all caregivers and practices;

Receive support for making informed choices about what is best for parent and baby based on individual values and beliefs.

Responsibility and Accountability 

Each professional and business is responsible for the quality of care they provide.

All Pacific Birth Collective professional and business members are responsible for periodic self-review and self-evaluation according to current scientific evidence, of the effectiveness, risks and rates of use of their care for parents and babies during the childbearing year.

All members agree to integrate anti-oppressive and pro-diversity policies in their practices and businesses.

All individuals are accountable for themselves and ultimately responsible for making informed choices about the health care they and their babies receive.

Conflict Resolution:  

If you have an issue with a member not upholding these Terms of Agreement: 

Step 1:  Please contact that provider and inform them 

Step 2:  Reach out to us for support.  Pacificbirthcollective@gmail.com with your name, phone number and a good time to reach you.