Which areas do you cover?

I generally cover a 50 mile radius from my home address but am able to discuss options when I know your birth history and your address do please call to speak to me if in doubt.

Shall I ring you if I am not sure if I want a home birth?

Yes please do so. I often talk to women about a range of issues or of difficulties they may be having during the childbearing year I don’t mind at all if you have other plans for your care.

What equipment do I have to provide?

I provide all the equipment and drugs relating to my midwifery practice and the birth, some women choose to borrow, hire or buy a birth pool if they plan a waterbirth but generally there is little else required except what you would have for normal home use.

What about ultrasound scans, screening and blood tests?

I can arrange these for you if you wish to have them and you may wish to have all the tests recommended by the NHS but it is you can decide which of the tests offered you want to take up. We will discuss their purpose and the reasons why they are recommended.

Will I save part of your fee if I book late in pregnancy?

It is preferable to have time in pregnancy to build up a relationship with you so that I can best provide what you need to feel safe and supported when you birth your baby. If a booking is made late in pregnancy I will make a reduction in the fee though the great majority of care happens around the month either side of the baby’s birth.

What do your fees cover?

The fee quoted will include all aspects of care including travelling costs, equipment and tests. It will not be adjusted once agreed between us. Most independent midwives work in this way because it is vital to us that you feel completely at ease about contacting us when you need to. It is impossible to predict exactly how long each pregnancy will last and the numbers of visits and contacts which each woman may require.

May I pay you in instalments?

Yes. This can be discussed between us and an individual plan worked out to suit you.

Can I get in touch with you when I need to?

Yes please do express any concerns or questions you may have in between appointments it is important to me that I know of these. I can usually be contacted quickly and will get back to you as soon as I can if not immediately available. I generally consider myself on call for labour from 37 weeks of pregnancy onwards when I or my back up midwife will respond to calls 24 hours a day.

What about antenatal/preparation for birth classes?

There is a good range of private and NHS antenatal courses available in the area which you may like to attend. Usually we have ample time during antenatal appointments to discuss a whole range of issues too and average time for each appointment is around an hour but depends very much on your needs.

What if an unusual or complicated situation arises in my pregnancy?

We will consider the issues surrounding the situation together and discuss how to proceed from there. I can refer to other health professionals and for medical consultation if it seems advisable and desirable but may not do so without your being happy with our decision.

What shall I do if I wish to consider booking with you?

Please ring, text or e mail me and we can discuss your requirements. If you think you may want to book we can arrange a consultation in person after which you can let me know if you decide to proceed to booking.