Independent Midwives are fully qualified midwives who, have chosen to work outside the NHS in a self employed capacity. The majority of independent midwives have chosen to work this way so they can offer full midwifery care to women on a one to one basis, in a way that suits both the woman and the midwife. This is not always possible within the current constraints of the NHS. Midwifery is the most closely regulated profession in the UK. All practising midwives must adhere to the Midwives' Rules and Standards (Nursing and Midwives Council 2004). All midwives, including independent midwives, are subject to yearly supervisory reviews and must notify their appointed Supervisor of Midwives of their "Intention to Practise". As part of our rules and standards, we are required to ensure that our clinical practice is up to date and that our actions are within our sphere of competence.

Listed below are some of the main reasons why women choose an independent midwife to care for them during their pregnancy, birth and early weeks as a mother.

Continuity of care: Many women want to get to know their midwife before they go into labour. It is important to have someone who knows you and who you trust. The majority of women, who have experienced different systems of care as well as continuity of care, prefer having a known midwife throughout their pregnancy, birth and early weeks of motherhood. Independent midwives prefer to work with women they know, as they know it helps them to provide a high standard of care and support. Some NHS maternity services are able to provide continuity of care schemes, but access very much depends on geographical location.

Homebirth: Women who are experiencing difficulty organising a home birth will opt for an independent midwife for homebirth expertise and support. Again many women choosing a homebirth will also want to know the midwife attending them for the birth of their baby. As before good access to a homebirth may depend upon where you live.

Water birth: Women who wish to have a home water birth may end up choosing an independent midwife if they experience difficulties in getting the birth support they require. Again access to water birth may vary hugely from area to area.

All three issues: continuity of care, home birth and water birth are often intertwined.

What sort of care can you expect?

Initially I will arrange to meet with you to discuss your health and birth needs, and what I can provide.

Antenatal care: This usually takes place in your home at a time that is mutually convenient. Antenatal care can be arranged to fit in around other commitments or to include partners and other family members. Care tends to follow a regular pattern of monthly visits until 28weeks pregnant, then fortnightly visits until 36 weeks pregnant and then weekly visits until the baby is born. An appointment usually lasts on average between 1 ½ to 2 hours. If we plan to have a second midwife present at your birth then I will arrange for you to meet up before the baby is due.

Labour Care: Having got to know you during your pregnancy, I will have become familiar with the progress of your pregnancy, your emotional, physical and spiritual well-being. We will have already discussed a plan for the birth of your baby and prepared for this special time. You will already have considered some of the details of your birth and who you would like to have with you. The choices for the birth of your baby are yours to make, my role is to provide professional support, advice and care.

Postnatal care: Depending on yours and the baby's needs, an individual schedule of care is worked out for you. This will usually entail daily visits for the first 7 - 10 days and then weekly visits until 4 - 6 weeks. If requested and appropriate, baby massage is included as part of the postnatal care package. I am experienced in providing feeding and baby care support.