Gemma Atkinson has explained to fans why she chose to pay for a private midwife amid the NHS crisis, and shared a message of support to those who are striking.
The former Emmerdale and Hollyoaks star is expecting her second baby, a boy, with fiancé Gorka Marquez. The 38-year-old told her Instagram followers earlier this week she is "just over four months" along.
Taking to her Instagram stories again on Wednesday, Gemma said she and Gorka have chosen a private midwife service to "oversee" the pregnancy this time.
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However, she said the baby will be born at an NHS hospital, and that she believes NHS staff should be paid "a hell of a lot more". She said: "I love our NHS but I know how stretched they are and with the strikes still happening I felt uneasy at the thought of history repeating itself with my pregnancy and not enough staff to help.
"Btw, I fully support their reasons for striking and they should absolutely be paid a hell of a lot more for that they do! Our baby will be born at an NHS hospital but my pre and post care will be done by Rach.
"Last time I was told Mia was going to be a big baby and she was absolutely tiny so this time I felt I need and wanted monitoring more closely. I'll be having a lot more scans this time keeping a close eye on baby's size.
"So far everything for baby and me results wise are spot on and as expected. Today we discussed birth options and locations. Rach will be with me in labour which already is a comfort.
"Any expectant mum will know the worry is always at the back of your mind, from the minute you find out your wonderful news."
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