Choices for Care

You will be booked with a Consultant Obstetrician. This is a doctor who specialises in the care of pregnant women. Your Consultants name will appear on the front of your care plan. Each Consultant has a team of hospital doctors who can see you on his or her behalf.
(If you would prefer to be seen by female doctors and midwives, please let us know and we will attempt to accommodate your request).

We offer a number of choices for your maternity care. The doctors and midwives will discuss these with you at your first antenatal visit. The following information will give you an idea of what is available.

Shared Care

This means that your midwives, GPs and hospital doctors share your care. You will meet your local community midwives at your GP’s surgery and local health centre. They will be involved in your antenatal care, as well as visiting you at home after the baby is born.
With shared care you come into hospital to have your baby. A team of midwives and hospital doctors will care for you.

Midwife only care

Your community midwives are responsible for your care during your pregnancy unless any significant problems arise which require a doctor to become involved.

Home birth

If you live in the maternity services catchment area, you may choose to have a home birth. Your GP and community midwives will provide your care. When you go into
labour, one of the midwives will come to your house where she will look after you in labour and call upon a colleague as the time of birth approaches. If you wish this type of care, please discuss this with your midwife early in your pregnancy.