Midwifery
What is a Midwife?
Midwives are specialized healthcare professionals dedicated to supporting women and their families during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. They provide care, advice, and support for pregnant women and their babies, guiding them through the journey of pregnancy and early parenthood.
Who do Midwives work for?
Midwives in England are an integral part of the healthcare system. They are employed by local hospitals but work closely within general practices and community settings. This collaborative approach ensures that pregnant women receive continuous, comprehensive care throughout their pregnancy journey. Midwifery services are increasingly moving from hospital settings to the community, reflecting a focus on personalized and accessible care close to home.
What do Midwives do?
Midwives offer a wide range of services including:
- Full antenatal care, including parenting classes, clinical examinations, and screenings
- Identification and monitoring of high-risk pregnancies
- Support during labour and the birthing process
- Postnatal care, including advice on feeding, caring for, and bathing babies
- They play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of both mother and baby, providing expert advice and support tailored to each individual's needs.
How can Midwives help?
Midwives are experts in childbirth, offering evidence-based information and support to help women make informed choices about their pregnancy and birth options. They focus on promoting natural childbirth and minimizing medical interventions, providing emotional and psychological support throughout the childbearing cycle.
When you should see a Midwife instead of a GP
Seeing a midwife is particularly important if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. Midwives specialize in the care and support of healthy, low-risk pregnancies, offering a more personalized approach to pregnancy and childbirth. They are the lead health professionals for women during pregnancy, providing continuous care and support.
If you experience any complications or health concerns outside of the normal scope of pregnancy and childbirth, your GP can provide additional medical care or refer you to a specialist if necessary.
Accessing Midwifery Services at our Surgery
If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you can speak to your Practice about being referred to our midwifery services. Our midwives work closely with the rest of the healthcare team to ensure you receive the best possible care throughout your pregnancy and beyond. For more information or to arrange an appointment, please contact reception.
