We use cookies to allow us and selected partners to improve your experience and our advertising. By continuing to browse you consent to our use of cookies. You can understand more and change your cookies preferences here.

Baby & child.

Birthing options advice guides

Thinking about where to give birth? Find out about your maternity options and the questions to ask when choosing between a labour ward, birth centre and home birth.

5 articles

NHS vs private maternity care: what are your options?

Most women in the UK get their maternity care for free through the NHS, but there are also private options available. From paying for scans to private hospitals, this guide explains what services are available before, during and after giving birth.

7 October 2021

Where to give birth

Find the right place for you to give birth, based on your preferences and personal circumstances. Our tool suggests the best maternity options for you to discuss with your midwife.

12 July 2021

Maternity options

Thinking about where to give birth? Find out about maternity options, how to book your maternity care, and the key questions to ask when researching local services.

Choosing a maternity unit – checklist

Whether you’re deciding between a labour ward or birth centre, or choosing from a number of local options, our checklist of questions to ask the midwife can help you determine if a unit is right for you.

14 July 2021

Why choosing where to give birth matters

Find out how planning to have your baby at home, in a birth centre or in a labour ward can affect your birth experience and what to consider if you’ve been told you’re at higher risk of complications.

12 July 2021