How to choose an independent midwife

1) Check with the Nursing and Midwifery Council

Every practising independent midwife must be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. If they’re not registered, they shouldn’t be working as a midwife. They can help you find a trusted midwife.

2) Ask friends

If you have any friends who have used an independent midwife, ask for their recommendations. They will have first-hand experience and you can also ask any midwives you talk to for referees.

3) Meet the midwives

Once you’ve done some research and found a midwife who looks like she could be for you, get in touch and arrange to meet her. Your relationship with your midwife is all about trust so prepare a list of questions you’d like to ask her – this will make sure you get exactly what you want from your midwife.

4) If you don’t get on…

Once you’ve met, if you’re not sure she’s the right midwife for you, don’t be afraid to say so – there are plenty of other independent midwives out there.

5) Sign a disclaimer

Independent midwives aren’t insured so she will ask you to sign a disclaimer. If she doesn’t ask you to do this, question it.