Labour and Birth Support
During the pregnancy we spend time discussing your labour and birth support options and preferences.
I will attain a good understanding of what you are hoping for in your birth and will do my best to facilitate this. Your decisions, including your right to consent or decline will be upheld. You are supported and cared for as you go through one of the most intense transitions of your life.
Labour and birth care include (but are not limited to):
- On call for you 24/7 from 37 weeks
- Homebirth OR Hospital birth, depending on your wishes and needs
- Assessment of labour
- Monitoring of maternal wellbeing
- Monitoring of baby wellbeing
- Hypnobirthing techniques supported
- Waterbirth (birth pool supplied)
- Emergency equipment and medications are supplied at homebirth, for use in an emergent situation
A second midwife will attend, as the labour progresses.
Care will be provided for several hours after birth, to ensure mother and baby are both well.
After birth the baby is monitored to ensure healthy transition from the womb to extra-uterine life.
Assistance with breastfeeding is given, as required.
Moms blood loss is closely monitored.
Suturing tears after the birth will be completed at home.
If a woman chooses to birth in hospital or is required to transfer to hospital, I will continue to support you.
I have worked in the southwest for many years and have a thorough understanding of the capacities and limitations of each hospital centre. If there is any need to transfer to hospital, I work closely with GP’s and OB’s to make sure that you are transferred to the most appropriate care centre.
If birthing in hospital, I will strongly advocate to ensure that your preferences are well known to any hospital staff involved in your care.
Your decisions, including your right to consent or decline will be supported with information shared to support your informed choice.
Every birth – irrespective of where it takes place – is incredibly personal and deserves respect and honour.
