The definition of an Independent Midwife according to the Independent Midwives Association is that we are fully qualified midwives who, in order to practice the midwife’s role to its fullest extent, have chosen to work outside the NHS in a self employed capacity, although supporting its aims and ideals. See www.independentmidwives.org.uk

Why choose independent care?

Women choose an independent midwife if they want to know and trust one midwife throughout pregnancy, birth and the first few weeks of caring for their baby. You can choose the right midwife for you, building a personnal relationship based on mutual trust. Independent midwivery care leads to better outcomes for mums and babies (see my statistics for normal birth).

I provide professional care from early pregnancy, throughout birth and at least 4 weeks postnatally (NHS midwives usually discharge women about 1 week after birth). I have a very small caseload so I can provide high quality care tailored to suit individual needs.Appointments are unhurried, at a time to suit you and in the comfort of your own home.

During the birth you will have the care and full attention of one (and possibly two midwives). I will not be looking after other labouring women as can happen in the NHS.

I can support you if the NHS is unable to do so, for example supporting your plans for a home birth, water birth or vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC).

If you receive care from an Independent midwife you are still entitled to scans, blood tests etc, through the NHS.

My statistics speak for themselves:

A majority of my clients plan to give birth at home (77%) and 66% of my clients achieved a homebirth. The UK homebirth rate was 2.7%, and the Portsmouth area homebirth rate was 2% in 2007 www.birthchoiceuk.com

70% of my clients planning a vaginal birth achieved this, compare this to the UK national average of 46.1% normal birth rate (birthchoice 2007).

Testimonials

“I thank Joy from the bottom of my heart for the beautiful and, dare i say 'easy' birth of our son at home. Knowing that she was there no matter what happened gave me the confidence I needed for the birth I'd dreamed of.” Pendella had her second home birth with me.

“You are a true wise woman and I hope that more and more people get lucky enough to choose you as their midwife. Joy was the right midwife for us and I cannot recommend her highly enough.” Kate who's second baby was born at home.

“Yes it was painful, but I felt so in control in my own home and trusted Joy's ability and judgment 100% so finally believed in myself and my body. Looking back it was one of the best decisions I ever made to book Joy as my Independent midwife” Debs who's 3rd baby was born at home after 2 previous induced hospital births.

“As well as providing us with the usual midwife support we expected, Joy gave us confidence and serenity when we most needed it.” laura and Roy's first baby was born by caesarean.

“The birth was the most amazing thing I have ever seen. I would recommend home birth to anyone, it was so calm and I felt so comfortable. It was the best day of my life.” Mark's first experience of homebirth.