At About Birth we love midwives and midwifery-led care!

Midwives have been around for centuries in various forms. The word midwife means “with woman”, which is exactly what they do – their role is to support a woman in pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period.

They are often referred to as the ‘guardians of normal birth’ and part of their role is to help promote normal and positive birth. Women in labour are very sensitive to their environment and the people around them. The midwife's attitude and behavior are essential in helping a woman feel safe and cared for, her supportive and encouraging approach helps create a sense of calm and confidence in the birthing woman.

Within some larger public hospitals there are also midwifery group practice programs (case load midwifery) where you are cared for by a small team of midwives. You have your ante-natal appointments with this team, allowing you get to know them during pregnancy and at least one of them will attend your birth. This practice of 'continuity of care' is proven to provide a more positive experience for women, with fewer interventions.

As well as having the guidance of a hospital midwife, there are many benefits of having a private midwife as a support for you and your partner. You will develop a relationship during the pregnancy and they can provide support at home and during the transition into hospital. Once at the hospital they cannot provide medical care as they are not employed there, but can continue to guide you through the labour physically, emotionally and support you with breastfeeding and the postnatal period.

Continuity of care is talked about as the "gold standard" of care and having a midwife guide you through all aspects of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal period often creates a deep long lasting trust and intimacy which enables a woman to feel supported throughout this transition in her life.

It's rare for midwives to do what they do for the hours or the money. More often they come to the profession because of a love for working with mums and babies, and helping families to thrive – they are driven by a deep sense of care. This is why we love them and love to suppport them.