Where can I give birth in Ashford, Kent?

William Harvey Hospital, Ashford, Kent

(WHH)

https://www.ekhuft.nhs.uk/services/labour-and-delivery/planning-your-birth

If you decide to have a hospital birth at WHH you have two options;

If you are fit, healthy and have a low-risk pregnancy, you can give birth on the Midwifery Led Unit (Singleton). This unit is run by midwives but is located within the WHH. It has great facilities that support a natural, hypnobirthing experience such as birthing balls, birth pools, private facilities and equipment to support upright birth positions (which we know are important for birth).

Your second option is the Consultant Led Unit (labour ward) still located within the WHH not far from the Singleton unit. This is for high-risk pregnancies and anyone being induced or who would like an epidural. There is not a birth pool on the labour ward so this is something to bear in mind if you would like a water birth.

It is important to note that the Singleton Unit can be closed at times due to staff shortages and you can no longer request a tour.

Maidstone Birth Centre, Maidstone

https://www.mtw.nhs.uk/service/maidstone-birth-centre/

Maidstone Birth Centre is a beautiful NHS birthing facility located at Hermitage Ln, Maidstone ME16 9QQ.

It is important to note that this is ran by Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells Trust which is separate to East Kent Hospitals Trust, however you can still decide to birth there. If this is something you would like to consider, please speak to your midwife at your next appointment so that plans may be put into place.

You can request a tour of the facilities.

Home Births, Ashford and Maidstone, Kent

If you would like a home birth it is important to let your midwife know as soon as possible so they can put it forward to the home birth team.

Here are some useful numbers to make a note of;

Hiring a birth pool for a home water birth.

Testimonials

  • Caesarean Birth Story

    I'd read the hypnobirthing book before my session with Katie, so felt fairly informed to begin with. However, Katie was so knowledgeable and helpful when speaking through my options, and sharing resources. I definitely felt more empowered and confident for birth, which I wasn't necessarily expecting as a first time mum! Katie made me feel really comfortable and was able to answer all my questions. If you're currently pregnant, I would highly recommend Katie.

    Kirstin and Sam x

  • Back to Back Birth (OP)

    "I had no idea what hypnobirthing was really until Katie went through it with me. She put my mind at ease about some preconceived ideas I may have had. I didn’t have the easiest first birth, but after my sessions with Katie, I’m actually so happy to say I’m looking forward to my 2nd! I never thought I would be able to say that, so credit to Katie for being such a good teacher! Katie guides you through everything like you're chatting with a friend, but is very informative and eye opening at the same time. I would 100% recommend!!!!"

    Becca and Steve

  • Positive Second Birth

    I had heard about hypnobirthing but had never really known anyone who taught it until I met Katie. I also never thought it would be a tool I could use as I had a bad experience with my first labour and always thought that the second time around it would also be just as bad.

    But after the sessions with Katie it made me view things very differently and made me realise that I can have a different birth if I approach it in a different mindset. My partner also attended part of a session and although it’s not really his thing, he took it on board and it showed when I gave birth that he was able to attend to my needs better. I am pleased to say I had a very different and positive experience second time round. Hypnobirthing with Katie was very interesting and informative and definitely makes you think differently on how to approach labour to make it less scary and to have more control on the process, so I would definitely recommend!

    Sarah and Perry

  • Calm, confident birth

    I recently completed the 6-week pregnancy preparation and relaxation class, and it was such a positive experience! The sessions helped me feel much more confident in trusting my own decisions when it comes to labour and birth. I’ve noticed a big shift — I’m far less fearful and have a much more positive outlook on my pregnancy journey.

    Katie, the teacher, is absolutely wonderful — knowledgeable, supportive, and so calming. I’d highly recommend this class to any expectant parent looking to feel more empowered and at ease as they prepare for birth.

    Sadie and Jack

  • From fearful to fear free

    I have just finished Hypnobirthing course with Katie and would 100% recommend it to anyone who needs confidence boosts im their pregnancy journey ! Katie has a lot of knowledge which will help you look at the birthing experience from the positive side and look forward to it .I'm really glad I came across this course , I can safely say that whatever my birth will be , I am positive and ready to welcome my son to the world, with calm head, knowing what I want and having the knowledge which will help me stay relaxed and positive ...before I was really scared of the labour, now I am actually looking forward to it- thanks Katie 🥰

    Edyta and Matt

  • First birth experience

    I did the 6 week Pregnancy Relaxation and Birth Prep group classes and it was fantastic! Katie is so passionate and knowledgeable and her support really made a difference. Over the six weeks, I felt calmer, relaxed and more confident. The tools and guidance she provides leave you fully prepared for birth. Highly recommend! Thank you so much!

    Sophie and Gary

  • Birth partner review

    Simply incredible!

    Katie effortlessly transformed our home into a comfortable relaxed environment to engage with her faultless delivery.

    We learnt things we never knew, despite already having had a daughter 2 years ago, and never felt embarrassed to ask questions.

    If you’re considering Hypnobirthing, there’s simply no other choice to be considered.. Katie is your answer!

    Andy and Alex x