Advice on choosing a midwife

[Malyna]

I am with a midwife at the moment, but not feeling like my concerns are being listened to.

I haven't slept through the night since becoming pregnant, due to shoulder impediment. When i see the midwife, she sympathises with me, but since i'm going to an ostepath, is leaving my shoulder problems in their hands (although I was the one who had to find someone to help - she provided no medical advice at all).

I'm beginning to wonder if I should find another midwife, or if I'm just being extra sensitive with this issue.

Would appreciate others thoughts - my concern is that when it comes time to be in labour that my issues then will be brushed aside.

[Trish]

How are you finding her care otherwise ? She probably knows little about your shoulder issue and what care is needed (just assuming of course) Is she supportive of your pregnacy and health relating to it ? Open to questions and gives suggestions to you ?

Being pregnant is a very sensitive time and it's so hard not to take stuff personal, I surely know that. Sleep deprivation makes things seem so much worse than what they are (coming from someone who is up 3 to 5 times everynight for the last 6 years)

Could you perhaps bring up your issues with your midwife, see how she handles them, that might tell you a few things about her. Sit down and have a think about why you chose this midwife in the first place, can you still see those qualities ?

I recently had a client change midwives mid pregnancy and she has had a hard time finding another that she likes. Would be interested to know who your midwife is (please don't post her name on here though)

Goodluck with whatever you decide. Oh and if you do look for another midwife, be discreet, don't tell them who your previous carer was/is

[Malyna]

the midwife was chosen for me by the birth centre - she was the next on the list (or at least I think that's how they are chosen). So I didn't have any say in who it was - although I did hear her on the phone today, and she was sounding very caring to a newborn and mother - so I think i'll just stick with her - perhaps its because I am having a relatively problem free pregnancy (apart from a GD scare) that she is pretty cavalier about things...

thanks for your advice