How to choose the right birth support as a solo mum

You don’t need a partner to have a supported birth.

But you do deserve support that feels safe, calm, and right for you.

If you’re pregnant as a solo mum (or preparing to be), chances are you’ve already been asked:

“Who’s going to be with you?”
“Won’t you need someone?”
“I could be there if you want…”

And suddenly, a deeply personal decision starts to feel complicated.

This guide is here to help you slow it down, tune in, and choose support intentionally — whether that means asking someone, hiring someone, or deciding to birth without a support person at all.

This guide is for you if…

• you feel unsure about who should be with you during birth

• people are offering themselves and you don’t know how to respond

• you’re worried about choosing the “wrong” person

• you’re considering a doula, student midwife, or other professional support

• you want clarity — not pressure — around this decision

There is no one “right” choice.
There is only the choice that feels right for you.

What this guide helps you do

This guided resource walks you through:

• the different birth support options available to solo mums

• how to decide whether you want someone with you — or not

• emotional considerations (safety, calm, boundaries)

• practical considerations (availability, reliability, advocacy, logistics)

• the questions to ask before you invite someone into the room

• how to recognise when someone means well but isn’t the right fit

It’s thoughtful, grounded, and designed to help you feel confident — not overwhelmed.

Why this matters

Birth is not a performance.
It’s not a social event.
And it’s not the time to manage other people’s emotions.

The right support can help you feel held, steady, and empowered.
The wrong support can leave you feeling tense, watched, or emotionally responsible for someone else.

This guide helps you choose from clarity — not obligation.

About the author

Created by Alisha, founder of Solo Mum Society and host of the No Need for Prince Charming podcast — supporting women to navigate solo motherhood with clarity, confidence, and support at every stage.