Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
How do I know which service is right for me?
If you are preparing for an upcoming birth, Birth Preparation may be the best place to start.
If you are looking back on a previous birth experience and would like to understand or process what happened, Birth Debriefing may be helpful.
If a previous birth experience continues to cause anxiety, fear, intrusive thoughts or distress, Birth Rewind Therapy may be the most appropriate option.
If you are unsure, I offer a free introductory conversation to help you explore which support would best meet your needs.
Are sessions available online?
Yes. Sessions can be offered online via Zoom, making support accessible wherever you are located.
Services can be in person depending on location and availability.
Do I need to be pregnant to work with you?
No.
Many women seek support months or even years after or before giving birth.
Birth experiences can stay with us for a long time, and there is no time limit on seeking support.
Do you provide clinical midwifery care?
No.
The Alternative Midwife provides birth preparation, birth debriefing and Birth Rewind Therapy support but does not replace NHS maternity care or provide independent clinical midwifery services.
Birth Preparation Questions
When is the best time to book Birth Preparation?
Many women choose to book during the second or third trimester, but sessions can be beneficial at any stage of pregnancy.
Is Birth Preparation only for first-time parents?
Not at all.
Many women seek support during subsequent pregnancies, particularly if they have had a previous difficult birth experience or want a different experience this time.
Can my partner attend?
Absolutely.
Birth partners are welcome and encouraged to attend Birth Preparation sessions.
Supporting birth partners to understand labour and birth can help them feel more confident in their role.
Will you help me write a birth plan?
Yes.
We can explore your preferences, options and priorities to help you create a birth plan that reflects what matters most to you.
Birth Debriefing Questions
What is a Birth Debrief?
A Birth Debrief provides a safe and supportive space to explore your birth experience, ask questions and make sense of what happened.
It is an opportunity to reflect on both the practical events of your birth and the emotional impact they may have had.
How long after birth can I have a debrief?
There is no time limit.
Some women seek support within weeks of giving birth, while others come years later.
Your story remains important regardless of how much time has passed.
Do I need to have experienced trauma to benefit from a debrief?
No.
Many women seek a debrief simply because they have unanswered questions or want the opportunity to talk through their experience with someone who understands birth.
Will I need to access my maternity notes?
No.
Some women find it helpful to review their notes and can be requested in advance, but most prefer to focus on their memories and experiences discussed with an experienced midwife.
Birth Rewind Therapy Questions
What is Birth Rewind Therapy?
Birth Rewind Therapy is a gentle, structured approach designed to reduce the emotional impact of traumatic birth experiences and birth-related fears.
It helps women process difficult memories without having to repeatedly relive them.
Who can benefit from Birth Rewind Therapy?
Birth Rewind Therapy may help women experiencing:
• Birth trauma
• Fear of birth (tokophobia)
• Anxiety during a subsequent pregnancy
• Difficult maternity experiences
• Distressing birth memories
Will I have to talk about my trauma in detail?
No.
One of the reasons many women choose Birth Rewind Therapy is that it does not require repeated retelling of traumatic events.
The process is designed to be gentle and supportive.
How many sessions are involved?
Birth Rewind Therapy typically involves two sessions, although this can vary depending on individual circumstances.
This will be discussed during your initial consultation.
Can Birth Rewind Therapy help if my birth was many years ago?
Yes.
Many women seek support years after their birth experience.
The length of time since the event does not determine whether support may be beneficial.
Booking & Fees
How do I book?
You can get in touch via the contact form or book a free introductory call to discuss your needs.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes.
I offer a free introductory conversation so we can discuss your situation, explore your needs and determine whether my services are right for you.
What are your fees?
Current fees are available on the relevant service pages. Please contact me if you have any questions.