NHS or Private? Thoughts, experiences?

[Beesok]

I know this topic was probably discussed before and I have used the search engine so pls forgive me :) But I am curious about the latest Mumsnetter experiences :)

Am currently 9+ weeks and have to decide by 12 wks, am booked so far with UCH but for private am considering T. Miskry who delivers either at Portland or Lindo (our preference in this case is Lindo because of the NHS emergency facilities)..

We would have to cover the costs of private ourselves and although we can ultimately afford to do that it's not "spare change" IYKWIM....to stop rambling wanted to ask those who went private if it was worth it? Bearing in mind that I have a low risk pregnancy (so far!) and don't plan to have a C-section unless necessary for medical reasons, I think I do want an epidural though...

So for someone who will probably have a relatively normal/average pregnancy/birth is it worth going private?

Another in-between option we are considering is hiring a private midwife (50% of the cost of full private so big difference), anyone had that exprience?

Essay over :) Thanks in advance for your advice!!

vez I will def. look into that, just waiting for the 12wk scan and will ask them then if I can take a peek ;)

valbona you read my mind - my poor hubby is very supportive and def. a calming presence BUT as you said he has no idea what to expect and I would rather have someone there who knows the ropes.....

Also the private MW is tempting because the offer good postnatal care too - until about 6 weeks and since my family is abroad and I don't really fancy an immediate influx of guests it seems that would also be very helpful to us first time parents :)

Valbona quick question - at UCH do you have a private room for the actual labour? I know this sounds really really stupid but I haven never really been on a labour ward here
I know they put you on a ward afterwards which you may be sharing with others......

Since I am probably gonna end up there I would love to hear more about your experinece and any tips etc?