Midwifery

For further information, contact Melissa Maimann at Essential Birth Consulting or call 0400 418 448.

The International Definition of a Midwife, as accepted by FIGO, ACMI and the International Confederation of Midwives:

A midwife is a person who, having been regularly admitted to a midwifery educational programme, duly recognised in the country in which it is located, has successfully completed the prescribed course of studies in midwifery and has acquired the requisite qualifications to be registered and/or legally licensed to practice midwifery.

The midwife is recognised as a responsible and accountable professional who works in partnership with women to give the necessary support, care and advice during pregnancy, labour and the postpartum period, to conduct births on the midwife’s own responsibility and to provide care for the newborn and the infant. This care includes preventive measures, the promotion of normal birth, the detection of complications in mother and child, the accessing of medical or other appropriate assistance and the carrying out of emergency measures.

The midwife has an important task in health counselling and education, not only for the woman, but also within the family and community. This work should involve antenatal education and preparation for parenthood and may extend to women’s health, sexual or reproductive health and childcare.

A midwife may practice in any setting including in the home, the community, hospitals, clinics or health units.

What is a Private Midwife?

A private midwife can provide qualified clinical care, support, evidence-based information, professional advice and peace of mind as a woman journeys through her pregnancy and birth.

Some women prefer to search out their own private midwife: one they can communicate with, get to know, and develop a good trusting relationship based on respect and integrity.

Many women prefer to have all of their care requirements antenatally with the private midwife of their choice.

When labour starts, private midwifery care is provided in the family’s home until the woman feels that it is time to go to hospital. Families are reassured that they may safely spend most of the labour at home and only go to the hospital for the birth. In hospital, the private midwife provides advice, physical and emotional support, guidance and advocacy to see that the birth plan is respected and maintained without a fuss. The family leaves hospital when they feel ready and care is continued in the family home, for up to 6 weeks.

Reasons pregnant women ask for the services of a private midwife:

Feel in control of their experience

Increase their likelihood of experiencing the natural, safe, satisfying, empowering birth experience of their own choosing

Develop a safe and trusting relationship with their own private midwife, who will provide continuous care right throughout the whole journey, from the early pregnancy, labour, birth and the first few weeks of early motherhood

Involve the partner and siblings in the arrival of the new baby

To feel empowered, confident and supported instead of anxious and scared, perhaps having had a disappointing experience last time.

To be supported to have a VBAC or twins by a qualified advocate who may help a woman achieve her preferred birth choices and minimise any medical intervention that may be unnecessary.

Finally …. to have a great birth!

For further information or to make an appointment, please phone 0400 418 448. I welcome phone calls any day of the week, any time between 7am and 10pm.