Hi Salsa
The answer to all your questions is yes.
Normally what I would do is:-
At our first meeting discuss with you and your partner what services you would like and what I can offer you. I can offer assistance from prior to conception to well after the birth of the baby, (usually six weeks but can be much longer if needed). During your pregnancy the number of visits I make will be dependent on what you want. If you wanted me to visit you every week then I would visit you every week on the other hand if you only wanted visits every 2 months then this is what I would do. During these visits we would check on your health and that of your baby by checking your blood pressure, temperature, urine (if indicated), listening to baby’s heartbeat etc. We would discuss what is happening to your body and your baby and what changes you can expect over the next few weeks. We would talk about birthing options such as the advantages and disadvantages of different birth positions. I would be happy to show all the equipment I carry and explain what it is used for. We would also what options there are should problems arise. In fact at these visits we can talk about anything that you want.
When labour starts I would be with you from the time you ask me to be there. For some women this can be quite early in their labour, other women prefer to go through early labour with just their partner and then call me when they think that birth is not too far off.
The length of time I stay after the birth will depend on what is happening. If you and your baby are healthy and baby is feeding well then I would usually stay about 4 hours after the birth. However if you are a first time mum of are perhaps feeling a little unsure then I am happy to stay until you and your partner feel comfortable on your own.
The number of visits after the birth again depends on your wants/needs. If everything is going well then I may only visit you every day for the first 3 or 4 days then a couple more times over the next few weeks.
I also offer the option to phone/email me to ask questions, discuss problems, or even just for a chat or cyber hug.
I would imagine that most independent midwives would work simular to this so again the answer to all your questions is yes