Anyone used a private midwife? Worth it for a hospital birth?

[Roo0996]

I’m debating hiring an independent midwife due to the current (and likely even worse) strain on nhs services in the next few weeks ...I’m due December. However...I need to have a midwife led unit birth as I need group b strep antibiotics....so wondering if there’s any real benefit?

From what I’ve read, they they accompany you to a hospital / MLU birth and be there all the time so you get dedicated one to one care. However the hospital is then responsible for your care so they are more of a birth partner. I don’t feel I need emotional support as such (over and above my husband anyway!) ...I’m more worried about staff shortages and safety...but if an IM isn’t allowed to do help in a hospital is there any point...or I guess it’s more they’re with you and may notice an unsafe situation earlier on through increased observation?

What a terrible state of affairs that you are left considering this.
Wrote to your MP and let them know how unacceptable it is that staffing in the NHS has been left to get this dire!
I am due in January and have similar concerns about the staffing of the labour ward. Its really adding to my anxiety as a first time mum and I'm so furious about it.
I really feel for the poor staff they have left too!
But no in answer to your question I probably wouldn't pay out for an independent midwife, just make sure my partner was clued up and could advocate for me and my wishes

Once you're in labour you should have a one to one midwife anyway so not sure what you would necessarily gain?

Agree with @PigeonPigPie - once you’re in hospital you are under the care of the hospital team surely. I don’t think a private midwife would be able to get remotely involved in medical decisions. Also most hospitals only allowing you one birth partner as well so the father wouldn’t be able to come as well.
Private midwives are more for home births, I think.

That’s what I’m wondering is that it’s only really worth it for a home birth..it would be worth it if the IM could attend the MLU and actually deliver my baby for consistency etc but I’d rather have my husband there if they can’t actually do anything medical. Just very daunting times with lots of uncertainty...I can’t get my head around the staff shortages issue. If they only have limited midwives and too many patients the safety and level of care just can’t the same, they can only be in so many places at once!

Sounds like a waste of money

Pre-covid they would attend along side another birth oartner and although couldn't deliver they could advocate from you.

Many hospitals are still only allowing 1 birth partner so it would be a choice between midwife or your husband.

And to the previous posters once in labour you get a one-to-one midwife. In a woman's dreams. Unfortunately many woman are left abandoned even when they are asking for help and starting to get pushing urges.

My friend had a doula during her birth and said she was really happy with her decision.

Even before covid. I had my DS in 2015 and the midwife does not stay with you the entire time.

I think it's a waste of money unless you would like someone to sit with you to put you at ease.