Independent Midwife & Health Visitor

Pgdip (Health Visiting), BSc(Hons) Midwifery, RM, RN

Birth Stories and Testimonials

Essex Independent Midwives

Jo and Olivia

When I first met Amelia the thought of having a home birth hadn’t crossed my mind. I was just happy to know that I’d have continuity of care throughout my pregnancy. However, as my pregnancy progressed I began to consider having a home birth and Amelia was able to give me all the support and information I needed to make my decision – and two weeks later (earlier than expected) baby Olivia was born at home!

Amelia was there for me every step of the way and with her support, encouragement and sense of humour I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect birth. I will always be grateful to Amelia for delivering my beautiful baby daughter and for making her arrival such a memorable experience.

I think it is so important to ensure that visits are unhurried and that people get the opportunity to talk to you to benefit from your experience and knowledge (which was most useful to me), as this is what people are paying for.
Lara James and Maxwell

Words are simply inadequate to thank you for all you have done for Melissa and Aaron.
Estelle and Charles (Parents to Melissa and Grandparents to Aaron)

I booked with you because of your knowledge of my local NHS hospital and your extra health visiting qualification and knowledge. I felt very supported and it was lovely to have your help at all stages.
Kate Tony and James

You gave me up to date information about my pregnancy and birth which was invaluable. I chose you following recommendation from a friend. I felt your care enabled me to have a flexible birth plan. I felt able to contact you with any questions. I was so glad to have your support and encouragement in labour. Your care after the birth was invaluable. Lynsey

We were happy with all aspects of your care package and would not hesitate to use you again next time! Many thanks for all your help!
Lara Mark and Naomi

I booked with you as I liked the information you gave me and that you were prepared to work over Christmas. You provided up to date information and directed me to where I could find other information. I was very happy with the care I received especially over the Christmas period.
Alison Nigel and Eleanor

I valued the range of experience you had and your professional and friendly manner. I had excellent care and felt really looked after! I particularly valued the pregnancy workshops. In labour your support was completely invaluable, and following Niamh’s birth your advice and visits were valuable, reassuring and tremendously appreciated. All I can say is thank you so much for your fantastic work, support and friendship.
Lisa Dominic and Niamh

When I met you I knew that Id be happy and comfortable placing my care in your hands which strengthened as time progressed. I couldn’t have hoped for a more perfect pregnancy and birth and the circumstances in which Olivia entered the world, at home, and relaxed would not have happened without you. In the first days and weeks as a new Mum it was of great peace of mind to know that you were there for me at the end of a telephone, or in person when I needed you.
Jo and Olivia

Marion Dean and Olen

When I found out that I was pregnant I had a sense of elation but also fear, a fear of the unknown, especially labour and how I would cope with motherhood.

My mum suggested that I look into having an independent midwife. As soon as I spoke to Amelia on the phone, I knew that she was the one for me! This was confirmed at our first meeting where she not only put my mind at ease but my husband Simon’s too.

I found Amelia supportive at all times during my pregnancy, especially during the first few months when I was suffering from constant sickness. She was always available on the phone for advice and support any time, day or night.

We both found the antenatal visits and discussions at home to be far more than just convenient. Throughout the pregnancy, Amelia became more than my mid-wife, more like a friend.

I was very nervous about the labour but Amelia's calm persona helped to keep Simon and I calm. I requested an Induction of Labour as I was overdue. When it was confirmed that I was in Labour, Amelia was there and didn't leave my side until I'd been changed and settled after Aaron's safe arrival. Due to the pressure put on the hospital staff, having Amelia by my side kept me calm and reassured that everything was going well and made the whole experience a pleasurable one rather than a terrifying one. I would never contemplate doing it again without her being there.

The care didn't stop once Aaron was born. Amelia visited the following morning in hospital to make sure that we both had a good night and that all was well. Once home her care continued and the advice we were given was practical and very helpful - as my mum always said to me, the placenta follows the baby not a guide book, so having Amelia either visiting or at the end of the phone was invaluable in the early days. I believe her support and friendship prevented the onset of post-natal depression.

Having had Amelia as my independent midwife for my pregnancy, labour and home-care I would not consider having another baby unless I knew she would be there by my side again.

We felt you were flexible and attentive around our time schedule. You were always available on mobile phone. The pregnancy workshops were very useful and helped build our confidence and anticipation for the birth, also your attendance at hospital visits and arranging appointments was invaluable. You were very attentive during labour, encouraging us at every stage. This support was very reassuring to us. You remained with us through the long hours of labour.. amazing!

The aftercare and answering questions was very helpful and appreciated. Attention to Olen was first rate and your child development background was terrific for explaining development and actions of Olen. Your home visits were frequent, useful and practical especially getting breastfeeding established. We were made to feel confident and then given space, but with follow up to check on our progress. On discharge we felt ready to jump into parenting with confidence.

In summary Dean and I were very pleased with the full service you provided. Your extra skills in Reflexology and Aromatherapy and long background in midwifery and baby interaction/development was excellent. We recommend you highly.

Melissa Simon and Aaron