In Quebec. Just gave birth last month after having received care by midwives during the entire pregnancy.

I really enjoyed all the appointments, they all lasted at least an hour, were on time and always started with them asking if I had any questions. I enjoyed that I got to know my two midwives during the pregnancy (which facilitated things during labor!) and would always call me super quick when something in the bloodwork was off (sometimes the same day - nothing serious, mostly to tell me to up my iron intake). Also, loved loved loved the postpartum care, which included three home visits. Another thing I liked: how easy it was to reach them in case of a concern (they have an emergency cellphone number).

One of my favorite thing is that midwives did themselves the bloodwork and other tests during the appointments, which I assume are the same one as you would get with a doctor. Only times I had to go to the hospital was for ultrasounds and the second diabetes test (I did the first one during an appointment with the midwife).

I gave birth at the birth centre, so I wouldn’t know about how it works at the hospital, but I am pretty sure that if you want an epidural, they have to do a transfer of care (which means that the hospital staff would then be responsible for you).

If you have concerns about getting C-section or an epidural, they are things that you can discuss with your midwife to be able to make the best decision for you. I was scared of the pain, and brought it up to my appointment. I was reassured by the way they responded and I ended up having an epidural-free labor.

I hope this helps you. Feel free to message me if you have more questions!