5 Surprising BENEFITS of Having a Private Midwife - Your Journey to Motherhood Just Got EASIER!

Bringing new life into the world is undeniably one of the most beautiful and transformative experiences a woman can go through. There are a multitude of options available for antenatal, birth and postnatal care, the evidence suggests that having a known private midwife by your side can make all the difference!

1. You get Personalised Care Tailored to Your Needs Gone are the days of feeling like just another face in a crowded hospital waiting room (did anyone say *uncomfortable chairs* and grumpy receptionists?). With a known private midwife, you can expect highly personalised care - often in your own home. Midwives prioritise building a close, trusting relationship with their clients, getting to know their unique preferences, concerns, and medical history. This attention to detail ensures every aspect of your journey is tailored to you, ensuring a more comfortable and positive childbirth experience.

2. Continuous Support Throughout Pregnancy and Beyond! Unlike obstetricians, who juggle multiple clients simultaneously, a private midwife is committed to providing individual, continuous support. Whether it's answering the phone in the middle of the night, or providing comprehensive childbirth education, your midwife will be there every step of the way. This unwavering, non judgemental support can contribute to reduced stress levels, improved emotional well-being and a deeper connection with your baby.

3. Higher Chances of a Vaginal Birth Studies have shown the woman who work with a known midwife experience higher rates of vaginal births. Midwives are often skilled in non-invasive techniques to encourage natural labour progression such as mobility, bodywork and alternative positioning. Additionally, they empower women to trust their bodies, and take an active role in the birthing process, reducing need for medical intervention.

4. Lower Risk of Caesarean and Other Complications In line with my previous point, midwives strive to allow the physiology of birth to unfold. This approach can significantly reduces the chances of caesarean, episiotomy (ouch!), and instrument assisted births. Having a known midwife can also reduce the chance of having a pre-term baby. Midwives promote natural pain management options, such as hydrotherapy (the birth pool), breathing techniques and aromatherapy, whilst continuously monitoring the wellbeing of you and your baby. Your private midwife will endeavour to foster a safe and positive birth environment.

5. Postpartum Care and Holistic Support The journey to motherhood doesn't end with childbirth; it continues for the rest of your life! A known midwife will provide extensive postnatal care, ensuring a smooth transition onto the joys and challenges of motherhood. From breastfeeding and infant feeding support, to emotional guidance and physical check ins, your midwife will be there to nurture you and your baby.