Antenatal
Care
Labour and Birth
Postnatal Care
Birth is a normal and natural event. It is not, in most instances, a medical problem. This is why I prefer to do home births.
I prefer to offer care as a package. This care should start antenatally and as early as possible. This gives me the opportunity get to know you well during pregnancy, to give us time to build a relationship based on mutual trust. It also enables me to give you information over a period of time to help you make your best choices for labour and birth.
I am happy to do vaginal births after caesarean (VBAC) and water births.
The following should be regarded as a framework on which to hang care tailored to your needs. All consultations and care will take place in your own home.
Initial consultation
This is important before booking my services. Not only does it give you the opportunity to ensure I am the right midwife for you, but also gives me insight to your needs and wishes. I make a charge for this visit, which is deductible from the full fee if you then book with me for your care. This visit usually lasts about an hour. All other exchange of information can easily be given by email or over the phone.
Booking visit
This takes up to two hours. I will complete a set of booking notes and take any blood tests that may be required.
Subsequent care
Visits will be at approximately 4 weekly intervals to 32 weeks of pregnancy, then fortnightly to 36 weeks and weekly until your labour begins.
I will also be available for telephone and email advice.
Top
There is good evidence that the best opportunity for a natural labour, with no medical intervention, is to avoid early hospital admission. With this in mind, I would be in telephone contact during the early stages of labour and visit you at home when needed - wherever you decide to birth your baby.
I can provide TENS machines, entonox - "gas and air", and administer Pethedine, if prescribed by your GP. I am also experienced in water births should you have decided to hire a birthing pool.
Should you choose to birth your baby in hospital it may be possible for me to continue as your primary midwife, depending on the hospital's policy. Otherwise, and for any emergency admission, I would take on the role of birth supporter and advocate.
Top
I will visit you every day for the first three days and with reducing frequency up to 28 days.
I will give support to help establish breast-feeding.
I will be available for telephone and email support.
I will visit at around 6 weeks after the birth of your baby to give you a photocopy of your notes and give you a chance to discuss any elements of your care or birth.
Top