What is an independent midwife?

An independent midwife is a fully qualified and registered midwife who works outside the standard healthcare system - offering personalised, one-to-one care to women and families during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period.

The role of an independent midwife is especially important for relationship building because it allows for a deep, trusting and continuous connection between the client and their care provider. This kind of relationship can profoundly impact the emotional, psychological and physical experience of pregnancy and birth. Trust grows with repeated contact, which can reduce anxiety and increase confidence in the birth process. In contrast, fragmented care (seeing a different professional at every appointment) can feel impersonal and lead to inconsistent advice or gaps in care.

A strong relationship encourages open, honest conversations. You are more likely to share your fears, hopes and preferences when you feel truly known and respected. This is important, as emotional safety supports informed decision-making and can help tailor care to your needs.

Knowing you have someone genuinely invested in your wellbeing can reduce stress, improve birth outcomes and even lower the chance of postpartum depression. This is important as birth is not a medical event - it’s an emotional journey. A consistent midwife offers grounding and reassurance during this transformational time.

A strong relationship makes it easier to feel fully involved in your care. When you feel heard and understood, you are more likely to actively participate and this will lead to better satisfaction and outcomes. This is important as you are less likely to feel coerced or dismissed when care is grounded in mutual respect.

Independent midwives provide individualised care that is woman or family centred. This creates space for a relationship that feels human, not clinical. This kind of connection helps you feel empowered, prepared and supported - not just medically but emotionally and spiritually too.

Independent midwives are experienced at supporting you to birth at home and encourage the use of water during labour and birth.  Many studies have shown that home birth is safer than being in a labour ward setting and receiving care from an independent midwife is also associated with less medical intervention, for example, epidurals.   

Independent midwives are still regulated by professional bodies like the Nursing and Midwifery Council in the UK.

Choosing between NHS care or employing an independent midwife is a deeply personal choice and is dependent on your own circumstances or preferences.  Receiving personalised, relationship-based care that is bespoke to you, can be a very appealing choice for many expectant parents.