The safest place for a woman to birth is usually the place where she feels safest. Midwyf Services has been supporting women to birth in hospital for many years. During this time, we have had clinical visiting access agreements with some hospitals, which includes the right to provide your clinical care. At hospitals where this is not the case, we provide continuous support while the hospital staff provide clinical care. We stay with you during labour and birth and assist you with evidence-based information to support your decision-making while at the hospital.
If you plan a hospital birth, we provide your pregnancy care, which normally involves 4 weekly appointments up until 32 weeks of pregnancy, then fortnightly until 36 weeks and then weekly up till birth (which may be up to 42 weeks). These visits usually occur in your home, with your family involved and may take around an hour or so. Whilst clinical care and assessment is provided, emotional and social support is also important, as is the getting to know your hopes and expectations, your perceived strengths and weaknesses and your fears.
During your pregnancy we aim to build a relationship of trust and confidence where you are in charge of your care. This kind of care, when you are able to build a strong and trusting relationship with your midwife, when your midwife knows your situation and medical needs well, is safe care.
After the birth of your baby we provide your postnatal care at home, thereby allowing early discharge from hospital in most cases, should you wish to do this. Our expert, caring support during the first six weeks after the arrival of your baby will help your transition to becoming a family or a larger family: a time of immense change in everyone’s lives.
Breastfeeding is a big part of this change and we are passionate about protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding. We have qualifications and years of experience to support the early days of your breastfeeding relationship with your baby.