Your questions answered
At GentleBirth Midwifery we understand you have questions about your birthing journey. We have years of experience, in providing clear, reassuring answers to your questions and information, research and options for you to make your decisions about your care. Explore this section to learn more about our philosophy, services, and how we can support your unique path to parenthood.
Frequently asked questions
It all began with a simple idea fueled by a deep passion for natural, empowered birth experiences. As GentleBirth Midwifery.co.nz, we pride ourselves on personal attention and dedication to every detail. Our approach is rooted in quality and integrity, ensuring that everything we do reflects our commitment to excellence for you and your baby. Here are some of the questions we hear most often.
What are the questions you get asked most often by future mums and families about your midwifery services or about giving birth?
Families often ask about the safety and benefits of home or water birth, what to expect during labour with a midwife, pain management options (emphasising natural coping mechanisms), and how early they should contact us. We frequently discuss Gail's philosophy of minimal intervention, her availability, and the comprehensive support provided throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, ensuring a calm and confident experience.
You can choose to birth in a hospital, a birth centre or at home. I will give you options and information to make that choice.
Midwives support you throughout your pregnancy, can order blood tests, scans, make referrals to specialists, and provide full antenatal care. We work with you on a comprehensive birth plan, then support you through labour and birth. We then visit you and care for you and baby at home for 4-5 weeks after birth.
This amazing service is free to you if you are a citizen or resident or have a 2 year visa.
What's really important for people to understand about your way of supporting mums and babies, especially with home or water births?
It's crucial to know that midwives have extensive and ongoing training, education and updates which means they deeply trust the natural birthing process. Our approach is about empowering you, providing a calm and watchful presence, and only intervening when medically necessary. For home and water births, this means creating a serene environment where you feel safe and supported, allowing birth to unfold intuitively, backed by expert monitoring and care and collaboration and teamwork with other medical professionals as needed.
Are there any common worries or important bits of advice you often share with people considering your care?
Many first-time parents worry about the unknown, pain, or potential complications. We advise trusting your body's innate wisdom, preparing your mind and environment for birth, and maintaining open communication with your midwife. The most important advice is to choose a care provider you feel deeply connected to and confident in. Our midwives ensure all safety protocols are in place and that you are fully informed and comfortable with your choices, providing a reassuring presence throughout.
How do I book an appointment or check availability with a GentleBirth midwife?
Due to our high demand, we recommend contacting us as early as possible in your pregnancy. The best way is to text us on the mobile number provided under our individual profiles. Or you can email on gail.kiss@yahoo.co.nz
What areas do you cover in Auckland, New Zealand?
GentleBirth Midwifery provides dedicated midwifery care across west Auckland and North Shore. For homebirths we can travel further however our clinic is based at 274 Te Atatu Rd in Te Atatu.
We can support you to birth at home, Waitakere hospital or North Shore hospital. Unfortunately we do not cover Auckland City Hospital however if you live in the CBD and feel happy to birth at Waitakere or North Shore hospitals then we can happily accommodate you.
What is the philosophy behind GentleBirth Midwifery?
Our philosophy centres on the belief that birth is a natural, physiological process. We advocate for a gentle, respectful, and empowering birthing experience, with minimal intervention unless medically required. Our expertise ensures safety and support, allowing you to trust your body and instincts, whether at home, birthing centre, hospital or in a water birth setting. We use hypnobirthing, active birthing and spinning babies knowledge to help set you for an amazing birth.
We are woman centred and whanau focussed. We want your support crew to feel involved. We love to encourage you and your partner to reach down and bring your baby into the world. We are as hands off as possible. Your baby deserves your loving hands to be the first to touch them.
Do you offer support beyond the birth itself?
Absolutely. GentleBirth Midwifery provides comprehensive postnatal care for both mother and baby. This includes home visits to assist with breastfeeding, newborn care, and maternal well-being checks, ensuring a smooth transition into parenthood. Our commitment extends to supporting you through the crucial early weeks.
Begin your GentleBirth journey
This is where your journey to an empowered and supported birth begins. Get to know GentleBirth Midwifery and what we do, and how we're committed to quality and exceptional service in Auckland. Join us as we grow and succeed together. We're glad you're here to be a part of our story.