Do I have to decide on the homebirth when I first book you?
No. You do not have to decide where you want to give birth until you are in labour, and you can change your mind at any time up to and during labour. In practice, most women have chosen where they are going to give birth well in advance of the due date.
What if I need to transfer to hospital during labour?
At booking, I ask you to also book into your local NHS hospital, as this makes it easier to transfer in if necessary. Depending on the circumstances, you transfer by car or ambulance and I accompany you and stay with you until after the birth. Whilst you are in hospital, I am not responsible for your care, but act as a birth supporter and liaise with hospital staff on your behalf if you wish.
Why might I need to transfer to hospital?
The most common reason is for a very slow labour. Occasional abnormalities of foetal heart rate or meconium stained liquor indicate transfer, as do excessive bleeding before or after birth. It is extremely rare to need to go to hospital for pain relief. In fact I have only ever transferred one or two women in normal labour who needs an epidural.
What if the baby has breathing difficulties after the birth?
Although this is very unusual, I am trained in neonatal resuscitation techniques and carry equipment to help stimulate or maintain the baby’s breathing.
What if I bleed heavily after the birth?
I carry Syntonetsae?? or Syntocien??, drugs which cause the uterus to contract and control bleeding. My first response is to use homeopathic remedies, but unless they have an immediate effect, move on to the more usual emergency drugs. If your condition is stable, after a heavy bleed, and you are feeling well enough, hospital transfer is unnecessary. If bleeding persists or severely affects your clinical condition, it is usually advisable to do to hospital.
What if I tear at the delivery of my baby?
I am trained, and carry all the necessary equipment and drugs to repair episiotomies and tears. In all my years as an Independent Midwife, I have rarely had to perform an episiotomy, and generally leave smaller tears to heal naturally.
Would I see you all the way through my pregnancy, birth and p-n period?
I perform all your ante-natal and post-natal care. I will be at your birth.
Do I need to see a doctor or NHS midwife?
If you are well and healthy at any stage during your care, you need only see you Independent Midwife. Should you choose to also see your GP or NHS midwife, it is entirely up to you, but not necessary. If any abnormalities are detected, I will refer you to the appropriate medical practitioner.
