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Wessex

Independent

Midwives

Midwifery Care

Philosophy of care


Wessex Independent Midwives are passionate about their work and dedicated to providing a high standard of care. We believe in a woman’s ability to birth her baby and we provide support and information to build your confidence and enable you to make informed choices on how and where to birth. We approach the experience of childbirth as far more than a physical event, perceiving it as a profound emotional, mental and spiritual experience for both the mother and her family.
Our midwifery model of care is based on the continuity of carer model which is the model of care the UK government aims to achieve. 

We believe women and their families have the right to:

  • A midwife they have chosen, who will be there throughout the pregnancy, birth and up to a month after baby’s birth
  • A midwife who truly understands and respects you as an individual
  • A midwife who will provide you with recent evidence based and balanced information
  • A midwife who will support you in making informed decisions about your care, tailored to your individual circumstances.
  • A midwife who has time to see you in your own home at a time to suit you.
  • A midwife who truly understands the journey of birth and how to maintain an environment to ensure your birth is a positive experience
  • A midwife who cares for the whole family unit throughout the pregnancy, birth and postnatal period.

By choosing our independent midwifery care you will feel safe and supported throughout your pregnancy, during your birth and postnatally. You will be able to relax, knowing that you have a relationship of trust with a midwife who knows what you want and truly respects your wishes.

"From start to finish, every step of the way you have been there for us. It has been a magical journey"

Antenatal care

Antenatal care

The antenatal period is a very special time preparing for the arrival of your baby and building a relationship of trust with your chosen midwife. Appointments are in the comfort of your home at times to suit your convenience checking on you and your baby’s health and well-being. There is plenty of time to discuss any fears or concerns that might come up for you or your partner along the way, which should help you to feel calm and empowered as you welcome a new member into your family.

  • We spend time with you and your family to build a professional friendship so that we can work in partnership, enabling you to discuss your choices and decisions.
  • We provide balanced and up to date information enabling you and your partner to make the best choices possible for you and your baby.
  • You will have open access to your midwife via telephone support and advice in addition to regular antenatal appointments
  • We can arrange all blood tests, scans and consultant appointments (should you require them) through the NHS
We felt supported and reassured through seeing our midwife in our home (in the evenings to boot so Simon could be there as well), asking all our questions as well as getting to know each other. We had a lot of fun and learned a lot through those visits.

Labour and Birth care

I would strongly recommend Wessex independent Midwives to anyone who feels the NHS system might not be for them, and particularly anyone who has had a disappointing birth experience previously. It helped me to close the book on my past bad experiences. They were relaxed but extremely professional and I felt safe at all times in their care. I never thought I could manage a drug-free labour after the first time but if I can do it, anyone can. The money spent really was the best investment we ever made for our family

Labour care

Your chosen midwife will be on call for you 24/7 from 37 weeks of pregnancy for your birth. And another member of our team, your “second” midwife (who you will have met in pregnancy) will also be quietly present at your labour, when needed. We can attend your birth at home or in hospital. 

  • We stay with you throughout your labour no matter how long your birth is. 
  • We incorporate hypnobirthing principles, aromatherapy and massage if you wish in order to facilitate an optimal birth experience.
  • We provide birthing pools and gas and air if required.
  • If you are having a home birth we bring all the necessary equipment and supplies with us.
  • If you choose to give birth in hospital, we have very good working relationships with our NHS colleagues.

Postnatal care

Postnatal care

We provide sensitive and personal postnatal care in your own home at a mutually convenient time that suits you and your family. The gentle support of your known midwife allows for a smooth transition for your family to adapt to the arrival of a new baby. 

  • Daily checks on you and your baby’s wellbeing for approximately the first week, then regular visits for up to a month after birth
  • Support with feeding and adapting to life with your new baby
  • Emotional support, and birth debriefing
  • Help and information regarding newborn care, including new born screening tests, vaccinations and parenting queries. 
  • As above we are also available on the phone outside of visit times. 

"The aftercare was just the right amount as well not too long and not too short. I felt quite achy after so there was no way I would want to leave the house to go to My baby's first appointments and any breastfeeding support groups! Erika did it all at home which was a god send."