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Frequently asked questions

If you don't find the answer you're looking for here, please get in touch - I'll be happy to help.

  • What services do you offer?
    Beyond childbirth education designed to empower, I offer a wide range of services designed to enhance your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health, and nurture you, your baby and partner from pregnancy, through birth and beyond. Evidence-based, Complete Childbirth Education packages: to ensure you're prepared and informed Hypnobirthing: to unlock your body's innate wisdom and equip you with a range of tools to enhance your peace and comfort Postnatal visits: I'll check in on you and your baby offering support with infant feeding, safe sleep, newborn care (bathing, nappies etc) and anything else you may need. Birth reflections: if you’d like to reflect on your birth experience, I'm here to listen, share in your joy, and offer support where needed. Trauma Release: support to bring about healing from a previous traumatic event Reiki for deep relaxation: Reiki has been shown to decrease anxiety and depression, ease pain associated with pregnancy and enhance healing in the postpartum period. Shamanic healing with Rebozo massage: offers a restorative experience which many women and experienced osteopaths attest to its benefits for realigning the pelvis following birth, balancing the emotions and aiding postpartum recovery. Mother Blessing Ceremony: Gather in sacred circle with your loved ones to create precious memories that honour this important rite of passage. Women's Circles: Join a supportive community where women come to connect, share experiences and empower one another.
  • How will your services benefit me?
    My clients say that working with me made them feel more relaxed, confident, and empowered from their very first session. They say that being able to draw on my wealth of experience any time they needed, helped give them the confidence to make informed decisions that were right for them and their baby. They say how much they appreciated having continuity of tailored support from the same midwife throughout their journey, and that following baby's birth, I was there for them too. Here's how I can support you: Before your baby arrives: Demystify birth together: No stone will be left unturned as we gently explore and unravel some of the complex and at times conflicting information about pregnancy and childbirth. We'll separate myths from facts, debunk negative narratives, and uncover possibilities and options you may not know exist, ensuring you’re truly fully informed. Emotional support and reassurance: I'm here to listen, answer you and your birth partner’s questions, and provide advocacy and support throughout your journey, helping ease any doubts and fears that may arise along the way. Tools and resources for labour, birth and beyond: You and your birth partner will be given lots of practical mind-body techniques to help you ease into labour, birth and parenthood with calm confidence. After your baby is born: Postnatal visits: I'll check in on you and your baby offering support with infant feeding, safe sleep, newborn care (bathing, nappies etc) and anything else you may need. Birth reflections: if you feel you want to share and reflect on your birth experience, I'm here to listen, share in your joy, and offer support where needed. Nutritional support: I can bring a nutritious meal to support your recovery and share helpful tips for a more nurtured postpartum period. Holistic support: Complementary therapies to help support your recovery and healing following childbirth and long after.
  • Are you an NHS Midwife?
    I’m a Fully Qualified, Experienced Registered Midwife, who has chosen to work outside of the NHS. This allows me the time and freedom to focus on the individual needs and choices of my clients. Like all NHS midwives, I’m registered with the Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) and as such am bound by their ethical and professional standards and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements, ensuring you receive safe and competent information and support. I offer: Personalised care: I can work with you to create a detailed birth plan and postpartum experience that’s right for you and your baby. Advocate for your choices: Together we can explore all options. Beyond standard NHS guidance and protocols, I can provide information, resources and unwavering support ensuring your wishes are heard and respected. Give you the time and attention you deserve: Plenty of time to answer you and your birth partner’s questions, address your concerns and offer support.
  • Can I still receive NHS care if I book with you?
    Yes, you can absolutely access all the benefits of NHS care. You still have access to: Scans and blood tests (should you wish these): Routine antenatal and postnatal checks are still available to you on the NHS. Specialist input: If you need additional support, I can refer you for a consultation within the NHS. Emergency care: In case of any urgent concerns, you can still access the full range of NHS care.
  • When can I start working with you?
    I'm here for you anytime.  Whether you're thinking of becoming pregnant, already expecting, or have already welcomed your little one, I'd love to support you. Some even contact me when they’re 40 weeks pregnant for a quick crash course or for a check-in once your baby is born, it’s never too late! If you're not sure when to start, let's chat and we can find the perfect fit for you
  • My birth preferences differ from my care providers' recommendations. Can you help me?
    If your wishes and your care provider's recommendations are not aligned, I'm here to offer my expertise and personalised support. Whether you've been advised your pregnancy is 'high-risk' or you need advice on home birth, induction of labour, BMI, maternal age, Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC), or that there are concerns about your baby's size or position—I can help. I’m committed to supporting you in navigating discussions with your care providers and can accompany you to medical appointments if you wish this. My goal is to ensure you have all available information to enable you to make informed decisions that are best for you and your baby.
  • I’ve given birth before, and just want to refresh my knowledge and skills
    No problem at all.  I can tailor make a private package especially for you.  Please get in touch and I’ll be happy to send a list of session topics for you to choose from, and I can then send you a proposal and quote.  You also have the option to come along to one of my scheduled Group Classes if you prefer.  If you’re not sure, connect with me and we can chat things through to help you decide. 
  • Where do you hold your sessions and consultations?
    I offer in-person sessions either at my home in South Aberdeenshire or at my premises in Stonehaven. If you prefer the comfort of your own space, I'm happy to discuss the option of visiting you (mileage fees may apply depending on where you live). Online sessions are also available for easy connection.
  • What if I'm choosing to have a C-section birth?
    My full support is available to you no matter how you chose to give birth.  Childbirth education and hypnobirthing sessions alone will give you crucial knowledge and the mind-body techniques needed for a calmer pre-surgery and more relaxed and empowered theatre environment and postpartum recovery. 
  • Is there anything I should bring, or do to prepare for online sessions?
    Comfy clothes, your favourite cushions, a cozy blanket, and a place to stretch out during relaxation sessions is all you need. A glass of water and a peaceful environment with minimal distractions (such as muted phones) will enhance your experience, but don't worry if you’re on call or life throws an unexpected curveball – we can work with that too!
  • My partner isn't sure about attending. Will they feel welcome and engaged in the sessions?
    Absolutely! Your partner or chosen birth companion is warmly welcome to join you, free of charge. They'll find the content directly relevant and engaging and they will gain valuable insights into the birthing process, the maternity service and a deeper understanding of what their own role is in creating a positive experience and how best to support you. My positive testimonials include stories from hesitant dads who discovered they loved the sessions, and some even came back a second and third time too! Of course, if you prefer to attend solo, that's also fine. Here's what your birth partner will gain: Increased understanding about the stages of labour and your emotional and physical needs during birth. Practical skills to confidently be able to offer you comfort, encouragement and support. Shared learning also fosters a deeper connection with each other. Evidence shows having a childbirth educated, confident and compassionate labour companion can improve outcomes for mums and baby.[1] Schedule a free consultation or send me a message today [1] WHO 2019: https://www.who.int/news/item/19-03-2019-why-having-a-companion-during-labour-and-childbirth-may-be-better-for-you
  • I’m a birth professional looking for support, can you help me?
    For almost 15 years, I've journeyed alongside midwives and student midwives, offering mentoring, pastoral, advocacy, and educational support in both their clinical and academic roles. As an experienced midwife, midwifery educator, former NHS team leader, clinical placement supervisor, student mentor, and former trade union workplace representative, I deeply understand the profound demands and emotional landscape of our unique profession. If you're seeking an independent, fully confidential safe space to process, reflect, and navigate the emotional complexities of midwifery or the maternity service, I'm here to listen in confidence, without judgment. Whether you’re experiencing stress, vicarious trauma or seeking professional development advice, or simply a desire to reconnect with the joy of your calling, I can offer: One-on-one consultations: To address your specific needs and concerns and help identify solutions. Mentoring and professional guidance: To help you navigate challenges and cultivate your skills. Compassionate listening and emotional support: A safe space to share and find solace in understanding. Trauma release: Safe, supportive trauma release techniques to help you heal from challenging or upsetting events you may have witnessed to help you heal and move forward.
  • I'm ready to take the next step, but have a question about payment
    While I typically request fees upfront, I am happy to discuss flexible arrangements if needed. Get in touch and let's find a solution that works for you!
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