Birth Reflections Service
a listening service for women who wish to explore and reflect on their birth experience
What is Birth Reflection?
The Birth Reflections Service offers you a supportive, confidential space to explore and reflect on your birth experience with a dedicated midwife who is there to listen, support and help you make sense of what happened.
Every woman’s experience is unique — and how you feel about your birth truly matters.
Many women find that talking about their birth helps them understand their emotions, gain clarity about the events surrounding your birth, you might have unresolved questions you would like to explore or feel more confident about future pregnancies. Whether you have questions, worries, or simply want time to reflect, we are here to help.
Who can attend Birth Reflections?
The service is available to:
- Anyone who has given birth in The National Maternity Hospital within the last 12 months
- Anyone who is currently pregnant and attending the hospital
- Your partner and baby are welcome to join you if you wish.
What happens at your appointment?
During your appointment, you and the Birth Reflections Midwife will explore the parts of your birth you want to talk about.
If you gave birth in The National Maternity Hospital, you will have the option to go through your birth notes together. If your birth took place elsewhere and you have your notes, these can also be included in the discussion.
Most women attend for a single appointment, but if you need further support, a follow‑up can be arranged. Your partner and your baby are welcome to attend the appointment with you.
The birth reflections service is not a complaints service. For information on making a compliment or complaint please visit our Compliments and Complaints page.
The Birth Reflections Service is not a counselling service. Our dedicated birth reflections midwife is not a counsellor, but will help you explore your feelings about your birth and listen and support you. If further support is needed, they will be able to direct you to other services.
How to access the Birth Reflections Service
You can be referred by:
- Any NMH healthcare professional
- Your GP
- Your Public Health Nurse
You can also self‑refer by contacting the Birth Reflections Midwife:
Phone: 086 1658 777 Email: birthreflections@nmh.ie
Please include your date of birth and/or hospital number so your midwife can access your notes.
Contact Details
Birth Reflections Midwife: Helen McHale
Email: birthreflections@nmh.ie
Phone: 086 1658 777
Please note: The Birth Reflections Service is not a counselling or complaints service.
