Care options

INDEPENDENT MIDWIVES

Research has shown that having consistent care during pregnancy greatly enhances the chances of a natural and uninterrupted birth. Independent midwives are medical practitioners who offer clinical care.

Benefits of Choosing an Independent Midwife:

Home-based Care: All care is provided in the familiar surroundings of your home. Hospital visits are only recommended if a medical opinion is necessary.
Personalised Approach: They see you as an individual, not just a number.
Support for All: Even if you're labeled 'high risk', an IM will provide you the care you wish, always ensuring you're informed about potential risks.
Building Trust: Establishing a bond with your IM ensures you feel secure, essential for the release of oxytocin during labor.
Familiar Faces: You will know who'll be there during your birth.
Flexibility: Birth Keepers are not bound by rigid guidelines.
Your Choice of Birth Setting: Experience the joy of giving birth at home, with the option to transfer if needed.
Empowerment: It's about asking, “What do you want?” rather than being told, “This is happening”.
Affordable Care: If costs are a concern, many IM's offer flexible payment plans.
Extended Time with You: Appointments are not hurried; they dedicate ample time for each visit.

Things to Consider:

Insurance Concerns: Up until recently there was no insurance for IM's. You will have to pay for the insurance as well as the fee.
Costs Involved: IM's might seem pricey, but many provide flexible payment options or even pro bono services.
Medical Constraints: They can't perform surgeries like caesarean sections.
Navigating Professional Constraints: Many have voluntarily opted out of NMC (Nursing & Midwifery Council) registrations due to stringent regulations, those IM's are now known as birth keepers and cannot perform clinical tasks.

CASELOADING MIDWIVES NHS:For those fortunate to reside in areas with caseloading midwives, they can greatly benefit your pregnancy journey.

Advantages:

Building Relationships: Connect with a dedicated midwife.
Comfort: Enjoy antenatal checks in your own home.
Extended Conversations: More time to discuss during your visits.

Things to Note:

Changing Faces: The same midwife might not attend the birth.
Guidelines: Restrictions may apply if labeled 'high risk'.
Time Constraints: Caseloading midwives, due to their schedules, might have shorter appointment durations and limited availability.

DOULAS/BIRTH KEEPERS – Their Role:

Choosing a Doula can be a transformative decision. While they don't play a medical role, Doulas are experts in natural birth, equipped with in-depth knowledge about the physiological birth process. They ensure you're educated about your rights, available choices, and the nature of birth.

Doulas focus on emotional and practical support, substantially reducing the need for medical interventions and increasing the chances of successful breastfeeding. Your journey with a Doula guarantees continuity of care throughout pregnancy and possibly even postpartum.

Please reach out if you would like the support of a doula or birth keeper.

Lesson 3

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