Beautiful Births Midwives: Homebirth & Hospital Births in the Dunedin Area
We are Heather LaDell and Louise Bell, registered midwives skilled in the art of promoting you and your baby’s wellness throughout pregnancy, labour and birth, and the first weeks of your baby’s life. We know that a gentle start makes a difference to you and your baby.
Adrienne Mulqueen, a founding Beautiful Births midwife, is winding up her work as a caseloading midwife in August 2010. She will still be active as a midwife, focusing on a supportive role as a backup and locum midwife.
You can book with a midwife as soon as you know you are pregnant. We provide total maternity care for well women and babies. If you need specialist care, we will continue to support you while accessing the help you need from the obstetrical team or paediatric team.
Homebirth or hospital birth – you choose
Healthy women can birth safely at home or in hospital; we provide information and advice to assist you in making the right choice for you. Wherever you choose to labour and birth, we protect your privacy, offer hands-on support when desired, and make careful assessments to protect you and baby’s wellbeing. If a problem arises, we are skilled and equipped to cope with birth emergencies; we also recommend consultation with the obstetrical team at the hospital when appropriate.
Waterbirth
Water can be tremendously soothing and relaxing in labour. You may choose to labour or even birth in water. Waterbirth pools are available at both hospital and at home. We are experienced and comfortable with supporting women in water in labour and birth.
Breastfeeding and parenting support
You will receive daily midwife visits until you are comfortable and confident with caring for your baby, then regular home visits until your baby is six weeks old. We provide intensive breastfeeding support and education and have high rates of breastfeeding in our practice. We are passionate about fostering a connected and rewarding relationship between you, your family, and your baby.
We are Heather LaDell and Louise Bell, registered midwives skilled in the art of promoting you and your baby’s wellness throughout pregnancy, labour and birth, and the first weeks of your baby’s life. We know that a gentle start makes a difference to you and your baby.