Ruth K. Mielke
Certified Nurse Midwife DNP, APRN, CNMRuth K. Mielke is a certified nurse midwife with 22 years of experience. She has a doctorate in nursing practice. Her expertise is in pregnancy, labor, birth, postpartum, and breastfeeding. Ruth has also been a gestational surrogate and loves to support surrogates and intended parents on their journey.
Most Popular
14 Things I Wish I Knew Before My Labor Experience
A nurse midwife shares things about the labor experience that women wish they knew, like what pushing is like and different labor positions.
How Counter Pressure During Labor Can Help
Discover how counter pressure during labor can reduce your pain and anxiety and the two main types that you may find helpful.
What Is An En Caul Birth?
Discover what an en caul birth is, how often it occurs, and the benefits and risks associated with an en caul birth.
Reviewed
Hospital Items You Can Use in Labor That You Didn’t Know About
Discover some common hospital items that can help with labor coping, pushing during labor, and other useful tools to help you through.
Forceps Delivery: What To Know
Find out all you need to know about forceps delivery - from why it may be necessary during labor to different types of forceps.
Water Birth: Benefits, Risks, and What You Need To Know
Discover the benefits and risks of water birth, where you can have one, how to improve your chances of having a water birth, and more.
Articles
Midwife vs. OBGYN: What’s the Difference and Who Should I Choose?
Discover differences between a midwife and an OBGYN, what each is trained for, how they can help you, and tips on deciding which to choose.
14 Things I Wish I Knew Before My Labor Experience
A nurse midwife shares things about the labor experience that women wish they knew, like what pushing is like and different labor positions.
How Counter Pressure During Labor Can Help
Discover how counter pressure during labor can reduce your pain and anxiety and the two main types that you may find helpful.
Rebozo: What Is It and How To Use It in Labor
Learn about the rebozo for labor, a traditional woven scarf from Latin America, how to use it, and its benefits.
What Is An En Caul Birth?
Discover what an en caul birth is, how often it occurs, and the benefits and risks associated with an en caul birth.
Sore Breasts During Pregnancy: What It Means
Sore breasts are a common occurrence during pregnancy. Get insight and tips on how to manage the discomfort better.
What Is a Midwife?
Learn about midwives and discover the essentials of midwifery, from certified nurse midwives to home-based midwifery.
Shoulder Dystocia: What It Is and What You Can Do
Shoulder dystocia is a rare emergency with long-term effects. Learn more about this complication and what to do if it happens.
Why Can’t You Eat During Labor?
Traditional medical practice has been to restrict eating and drinking during labor. Learn why, and what the latest research says about it.
Leukorrhea: Vaginal Discharge During Pregnancy
Learn the differences between normal and abnormal leukorrhea discharge. Find out causes, care, and changes for healthy vaginal health.
How to Use a Birthing Ball
Learn how a birthing ball can help with balance, promote relaxation, and help get the baby into your pelvis correctly.
What Is Early Fetal Heart Rate Deceleration? (And Why It’s a Good Thing!)
Fetal heart rate decelerations can be good - learn more about them and other common terms used during labor.
Macrosomia: What It Means When Your Baby Is Measuring Big
Uncover the truth behind fetal macrosomia: what is it, is it dangerous, and can you have a vaginal delivery? Read on to learn more.
Castor Oil for Labor Induction: Does it Work?
Know the details on using castor oil for labor induction before trying it. Ricinoleic acid, ricin toxin, and other components explained.
