Midwifery Care FAQ's
Commonly asked questions about midwifery care
Do you charge extra for travel?
Mileage is included in the cost of care packages. If you live further than my normal area of cover, please get in touch to discuss.
Will I see other midwives or just you?
Normally you will just see me. Continuity of carer is important to me and the way to do that is to build a trusting relationship together over time. Continuity of carer is beneficial to you as well as it has been shown to improve outcomes. However, on some occasions you may see a trusted colleague once or twice if I am off sick or aspects of your care fall during times when I have annual leave. I try to ensure that the colleague you see is likely the one who will come a second midwife to your homebirth, so she is familiar and trusted to you as well.
Do I have to have NHS care too?
No, you can have only private care if you wish. Otherwise, you can combine care with the NHS, and you can always accept or decline any aspect of my care or NHS care.
I recommend booking your local NHS maternity service for screening blood tests, maternal well-being tests, and ultrasound scans, as you are entitled to this care in conjunction with my services. You may choose to have only private care, all of the above is available privately for additional costs. You will be referred to the NHS for urgent concerns and emergencies or to speak to a consultant obstetrician should you wish to speak to one.
Can I text/call you once I am your client as much as I need?
You will receive unlimited phone/text or email support, always. I will do my best to answer as a priority between 9.00-21.00. If I am on call for you my phone will be on 24/7. Please call if you think you are in labour and have booked birth support with me, I may not hear a text notification overnight.
Can you do homebirths?
Yes!
I am passionate about supporting home births and am proud to be part of the Zest family. As a member of this organization, I am fully insured, including coverage for birth care.
I would be honored to provide care for you and assist in facilitating a home birth, provided that both you and your baby are healthy, and we have discussed and agreed that this is the best choice for your unique circumstances. Should any concerns arise regarding the health of you or your baby, I may recommend a hospital birth to ensure the safest possible outcome, but all birth decisions will be yours, including place of birth.
If you choose or need a hospital birth, I can accompany you during labor and birth to offer support and advocacy for both you and your baby. However, please note that most hospitals do not permit independent midwives to provide hands-on care while on their premises. All births matter, and I am happy to support you in the location that you feel most comfortable and safe to birth in.
How long are appointments?
I am able to offer much longer appointments than the NHS. Usually your appointments will last 1-2 hours depending on your needs. Appointments always take place in the comfort and privacy of your own home at a time that suits you, including evenings and weekends.
What if I have a complex pregnancy?
Every pregnancy is unique, and it's essential that you receive the care, support, and information that are right for you. Decisions about your care will always be your own, or made in partnership with you, never for you.
If problems arise in your pregnancy I may recommend you speak to a doctor or that you are seen and assessed in hospital, or have additional tests done. You may always accept or decline, but I will give you information and an explanation as to my rationale.
You can carry on your care with me privately, even in the case of complex pregnancies, however I may recommend shared care with the NHS or trusted colleagues. I am always happy to help you liaise with the NHS and help you advocate for what you need and want.
Please get in touch to discuss further.
The hospital told me I am ‘high risk’, can I still have a homebirth?
You always have the right to birth your baby where you choose. I prioritise keeping you and your baby safe. If you have ‘risk factors’ in your pregnancy we can always discuss what support I can give to keep you and baby safe, whilst respecting your choices. This discussion will always be unique to you.
Risk is not a static concept, and I would love to meet with you to fully understand your individual needs. I have worked with many women whose pregnancy and births were “high risk” and have successfully supported them through their unique journeys, this has included homebirths. I will always provide an honest, non-coercive, and evidence-based discussion about what your specific circumstances mean for you, your baby, and your birth. Together, we can explore how I can support you in having a fulfilling, safe, and positive birth experience.
As a private midwife, I have the flexibility to take a more holistic approach to pregnancies and births that fall outside standard guidelines. My role as your midwife is to advocate for your choices, offer evidence-based information to help you make informed decisions, and support you in birthing your baby in the place where you feel most safe and confident.
How long do you stay after the birth of the baby?
My role doesn’t end once your baby is born. After a homebirth, I typically remain for 2-3 hours to allow you to fully experience the Golden Hour without rush. During this time, I will assist you in birthing the placenta, check for any vaginal tears and repair them if needed, perform well-being checks on both you and your baby, and offer breastfeeding support if that’s something you choose. We’ll also discuss future visits, normally the first visit happens the next day. Most postnatal packages include 3-4 visits during the first week after your baby’s arrival.
For a planned hospital birth or cesarean section, I generally stay for 1-2 hours after birth to support you with feeding and newborn care. Once you’re discharged from the hospital, I will visit you at home to continue postnatal care. If you’re in the hospital for an extended period, I can visit you there, or we can arrange to start your postnatal care at home once you’ve been discharged.
What if things don’t go to plan?
In the case of a homebirth, I am committed to supporting you throughout a transfer to the hospital, and I will stay with you to ensure a smooth transition once we arrive. I train annually in emergency procedures and bring essential safety and emergency equipment with me to every homebirth. While I hope I won’t need to use them, they’re available should the need arise.
Throughout your pregnancy, we will discuss potential reasons for transfer so that you have ample time to ask questions and fully understand the reasoning. My goal is always to ensure your and your baby’s safety and well-being, and I am committed to being transparent and honest with you about any concerns that arise. I strive to support you in having a homebirth, as long as both you and your baby are healthy and safe. However, should complications arise, I will be open about the options, including the possibility of a transfer.
There are times when it may be safer for you and your baby to consider a hospital birth during pregnancy, and I will always communicate this clearly. I want to ensure you feel well-supported in making the decision that’s right for you. I will continue to care for and support you through the your birth experience if circumstances change.
Do you have lots of homebirth experience?
Yes, I do! As a student midwife, I had the privilege of attending 14 homebirths, which taught me invaluable skills in supporting mothers and babies in the comfort of their homes. Since qualifying, I’ve attended and supported numerous homebirths each year, far too many to count! On average, I facilitate and assist with 1-4 homebirths each month. Homebirth is truly my passion! In addition to this, I’ve also gained extensive birth support experience working in alongside birth centres and labour wards, where I’ve supported hundreds of births since qualifying.
What have you transferred clients for?
I’ve had a very limited number of transfers during homebirths, and each one was carefully considered and agreed upon with my clients. A transfer to the hospital does not mean you have failed, your safety and baby’s safety matters. In the past, I’ve transferred for:
Excessive bleeding after birth, which could not be controlled with the available resources at home.
A retained placenta, despite several hours of attempts to deliver it safely at home.
Two occasions where babies required further support from the NICU, but remained well afterwards.
In pregnancy, I have supported clients in hospital who have attended for sudden pre-eclampsia and pre-term labour.
These transfers were necessary to ensure the health and safety of both mother and baby and were done with full consent and support.
I want as little intervention as possible, and a ‘hands off' birth. Is that ok?
Absolutely! Every birth choice is yours to make, and I am here to support you. We will have a thorough discussion about your preferences and wishes, ensuring that they are honored in a way that’s safe for both you and your baby. My focus is always on your unique needs, and I will work with you to create a plan that respects your choices and promotes your well-being. I support informed choice and I trust that you know what’s best for you and your baby! If you have specific requests, please get in touch! There is nothing too strange or unusual that we can’t work together with. I guarantee that even if your birth doesn’t go as you imagine it, we will have built a trusting relationship together, and I will support you through any situation that arises.
What areas do you cover?
Areas covered: Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Somerset. Usually within about 1.5 hours drive from Shaftesbury, Dorset. This includes packages of antenatal or postnatal only care and single appointments.
How do I book care?
Contact me! However, In order to secure your care I’ll need to receive the agreed payment first or first instalment. Please note care is not agreed before this.
What is the difference between a midwife and a doula?
Midwifery is one of the most highly regulated and trusted professions in the world. A midwife is your expert guide throughout the entire pregnancy journey, offering professional, clinical care during the antenatal, labor, and postnatal stages. As the lead healthcare provider for a normal pregnancy and birth, midwives are trained to monitor both mother and baby’s well-being, recognize potential complications early, and take immediate action when necessary. We also provide emotional and welling support in pregnancy, birth and upon arrival of your baby. Midwives also offer screening tests, referrals, and specialist services for you and your baby. This ensures that you and your baby receive the safest, most comprehensive care possible.
While doulas provide invaluable non-clinical support by offering emotional and practical assistance during labor and postnatally, they are not trained to provide medical care or give medical advice. A doula can help you feel supported, but a midwife goes beyond that, offering clinical expertise to handle any medical needs that may arise. With a midwife, you receive a full spectrum of care, from regular checkups and advice to immediate intervention when needed, ensuring a smooth and safe experience for both you and your baby. You’ll also receive all of the wonderful emotional support too!
Choosing a midwife means choosing a professional who can provide the essential care, knowledge, and support you need throughout your pregnancy and birth, ensuring you feel confident and cared for at every step of the way.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes! When booking from early pregnancy, normally I ask for payment in two parts, one half to commence care and the remaining half by 30 weeks of pregnancy. If this is financially difficult for you please get in touch, you can pay in pre-agreed instalments that suit you, however, the full amount is due by 36 weeks to ensure I am able to go on call for you. In some cases for smaller packages late in pregnancy, full payment is required upfront.
I don’t want visits before or after birth, can I only book birth care?
No, I take immense pride in offering the highest quality care, grounded in best practices to ensure the wellbeing of both mother and baby. Unlike the fragmented care often experienced in hospital settings, where continuity is often lacking, I focus on building a strong, personalised relationship with each of my clients.
My goal is not only to maintain best practice standards but also to truly get to know you, so I can provide the most tailored and attentive care possible. I believe that it’s equally important for you to know your midwives, building trust and ensuring you have direct access to the professional care and support you need. This continuity of care allows you to feel secure and confident throughout your pregnancy, knowing that your midwife is always there for you every step of the way.
Why should I choose an independent midwife over free NHS care?
Choosing a private midwife over free NHS care is a decision that many women make for a more personalised, dedicated experience. While I have gratitude for the National Health Service, having spent part of my career working within it, the reality for many families is that NHS care often comes with challenges. NHS professionals are under immense time pressures, juggling large caseloads, and bound by hospital policies that may not always cater to you as the unique individual you are.
It’s because of these limitations that I’ve chosen to work within the independent midwifery model. As your midwife, my time is entirely dedicated to you. I spend hours getting to know you, building trust, and providing the care and attention you deserve. This allows me to offer more than just clinical support; I can educate both you and your partner in a way that is specific to your needs and situation, treating you as an individual, not just another number on a list.
For many women, the NHS system can feel impersonal, leaving them feeling unseen, confused, or even traumatised by misinformation and scare tactics that lead to difficult decision making. Through individualised care, I work to overcome these barriers, empowering you to take control of your pregnancy journey with confidence. My clients can attest to how this approach helps them feel supported, informed, and in charge of the decisions that matter most to them.
How many clients do you take per month?
The number of clients I take on each month varies, but typically, I care for only 1-2 clients. In some cases, I may take up to 3 clients if they are located in a similar geographical area. This approach allows me to ensure that I am fully dedicated to you when the time comes for your labour. By limiting the number of clients I take on, I can provide the personalised, focused care you deserve, ensuring that I am always available and ready to support you during such an important time in your journey. I encourage you to book early to ensure I am available for your due date.
Are You Fully Insured?
Yes, I am fully insured to provide antenatal, postnatal, and intrapartum (birth) care. I purchase insurance, ensuring you're fully covered during this important time.
I obtain this insurance through Zest and the RCN, which not only gives me access to professional support but also offers many opportunities for ongoing learning and skill development through their network of colleagues. As part of my commitment to maintaining the highest standards my practice is regularly audited by Zest. Your choices still matter and your decisions about your care are always your own.
If you have any questions or would like to know more, please don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to ensure you feel supported and confident in your choice of care.
What happens if I have a miscarriage?
In the unfortunate event of a miscarriage, you will only be charged for any appointments and blood tests that have already taken place. Additionally, insurance fees may remain due. I can continue to support you through your miscarriage if you wish.
Do you provide private ultrasound scans?
I am not able to provide this service. You may choose to arrange your own private scans or access them via the NHS, you may also choose to decline scans altogether in your pregnancy. If I find there is a clinical concern with baby’s growth in your pregnancy I will liaise with the NHS on your behalf to book the growth scan, or you may choose to book one privately yourself.
Do you offer choice?
Yes! Every person’s pregnancy, birth, and postnatal choices and preferences are different. Every aspect of care you receive is done only with your consent, everything is an offer and optional. Please get in touch with me to discuss your specific preferences and wishes, if I am unable to accommodate them I will communicate that honestly with you so you can make an informed choice about booking care with me.
How do I know if you are the right midwife for me?
It’s important that you choose the best midwife for you! I encourage you to get in touch with me to arrange a free telephone consultation. In some cases, I offer face-to-face initial consultations. Choosing the right midwife ensures a mutually trusting relationship and positive interactions for both you and myself. Prior to our call I recommend preparing a few questions to enable you to get the most out of our conversation. I also recommend that you speak to other midwives in your area, the right fit is important.
What do you bring with you to a homebirth?
I bring all of my essential equipment to check you and your baby. I may not need half of the things I carry, but I have them in case I do. For example, I carry equipment like a blood pressure cuff, thermometer, sonic aid, weighing scales etc. I also bring emergency equipment such as a resuscitation bag and masks for both you and your baby, medications to stop excessive bleeding after birth, a suturing kit in case you have a vaginal tear that needs repairing, gas and air for pain relief etc. I can also bring other items like a peanut ball and rebozo to aid you in different birth positions should you want that.
I’d like to make a complaint, how can I do that?
I’m sorry to hear that you are unhappy with your care. In the first instance, if you feel comfortable speaking or writing to me directly, I would appreciate the opportunity to put things right for you. If not please let me know that you would like to speak to an alternative person and I will provide you with a contact.