Home | About me | Why an independent midwife? | Preparing for the birth | Homebirth | Water birth | Links | FAQs | Contact Me
 

Q: If I book with an independent midwife am I still entitled to NHS care?
A: Booking with an independent midwife does not take away your entitlement to NHS care. An independent midwife can liase with the relevant health care professionals within the N.H.S to ensure you have the same access to screening, diagnostic tests and medical opinion as any other pregnant woman.

Q: How much does it cost to appoint an independent midwife?
A: That will depend on where in the UK you are based. Prices and types of payment can be discussed in person.

Q: What if I need to go to hospital?
A: As an independent midwife I do not have an N.H.S contract. However, if you need to transfer to hospital I can arrange to accompany you as a birth companion.

Q: Am I entitled to a homebirth?
A: You have the right to choose where you will give birth. Have a look in the Homebirth section, at the latest circular from the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). Health professionals can offer you their advice about your birth choices - but the decision is always yours.

Q: Am I entitled to a water birth?
A: You have the right to choose to give birth in water if you wish, but the NHS is not obliged to provide you with a birthing pool. Most progressive N.H.S maternity units provide birthing pools and in the water birth section I have enclosed a list of local pool hire contacts. You will need to check for yourself the safety and reputation of these contacts.

Q: What is a lotus birth? A: A lotus birth is the practice of leaving the umbilical cord uncut after the third stage of labour. This means that the baby and placenta remain attached until the cord separates after approximately three days.
For more information try reading:
Rachana, S (2000): Lotus birth: Greenwood Press. ISBN 0646406523

Website by  CloudyHill

Scottish
Independent
Midwives
Scottish Independent Midwives