[doulacara]

A brief overview of maternity choices - depends a lot on where you are, but the basics:

1. Public Hospital Maternity Unit: free, you will see a midwife or Obstetrician for ante-natal appointments, but not the same one each time and you don't get to choose who. Some public hospitals have midwifery programs where you see one midwife or a small team for the duration, but these are few and far between. You can also elect to see your local GP for ante-natal appointments.

2. Private Hospital, Private Obstetrician - paid for by you or your health insurance.

3. Private Midwife for birth support in a hospital or for homebirth. Paid for by you.

Without much support around you, a doula and midwife could be a fantastic choice for you. If you go to hospital, you won't know anyone there, likely to be just who ever is there on the day. In terms of support, a private midwife can offer one-to-one care throughout pg and postnatal, likewise for a doula.

I am having a doula and midwife for this birth. Couldn't be happier with my choice. I know I will be well supported and nurtured and I feel really safe in this environment.

The decision to homebirth is different for everyone. Maybe talk to some people who have done it, read their birth stories, watch videos to get a feel for it.

C