Midwives are your main carers in labour, whether you choose to have your baby at home, in a midwifery-led birth centre or on an obstetric labour ward. Women in established labour will normally receive one-to-one care in labour from a named midwife. Your midwife will support you during labour, ensuring you and your baby are well and safe.
Obstetricians
An obstetrician will be involved in your care if any complications or more complex needs arise during labour and/or birth. If an induction of labour is recommended for you, or if your labour and/or birth slow down it is likely that you will be seen by an obstetrician. If there are concerns with your health, the health of your baby or if an assisted or caesarean birth is recommended you will also be seen by and cared for by an obstetrician who will work in partnership with your midwife.
Maternity support workers
These may work under the direct supervision of your midwife to provide you with support during labour. They may also help you with feeding your baby immediately after birth.
Anaesthetist
If you have an epidural during labour, this will be put in by an anaesthetist. If you require a caesarean birth, you will also be cared for in theatre by an anaesthetist, in partnership with an obstetrician and your midwife. Anaesthetists may also become involved in your care if you have any complications or need a higher level of care due to medical conditions.
Theatre team
If you have a planned or emergency caesarean birth, there will be staff in the theatre to assist the anaesthetist, obstetrician and midwife who are caring for you. You may also be in theatre if an assisted birth is recommended, or if you have any complications after the birth that require more intensive care.
Student midwives/doctors
During labour and birth, there may be a student midwife or doctor working with your named midwife. Student midwives or doctors may provide you with care and support under direct or indirect supervision of the midwife, depending on their stage of training. Care will only be provided with your consent, and your midwife will discuss this with you.
Admin/clerical
The team of midwives and doctors in birth centres and labour wards are supported by a team of reception, clerical and administrative staff that you may meet. Please ensure you inform the clerical team if you have any changes to your contact number, address or GP to ensure that information is recorded correctly on key documentation.
