About Kirsty & Forty Weeks

About Kirsty Hawthorn

From an early spark of interest in 1998, ignited by meeting an independent midwife in the UK, my interest in midwifery has led me on a remarkable journey. I travelled through Sub-Saharan Africa including time spent living in Mozambique and Swaziland, which deeply enriched my understanding and appreciation of traditional practices. Immersed in these amazing cultures, I observed firsthand how local women approached pregnancy, birth, and early childcare, all of which has shaped my view of midwifery and early motherhood support.

My professional training encompasses roles as a Registered and practising Midwife, Certified Infant Massage Instructor (CIMI), Teacher Trainer with the International Association of Infant Massage (www.iaim.net) yoga teacher, and complementary therapist. Time spent working in the NHS at a large tertiary hospital, in community settings, and as a case-loading midwife further honed my clinical skills, where I found my keen interest in home births.

In October 2020, I moved to Co Kerry, where I work as a labour ward midwife at University Hospital Kerry and as a self-employed community midwife providing home birth services in the area. My practice combines clinical expertise with evidence-based, complementary therapies, offering a well-rounded approach to maternity care.

About Forty Weeks

Founded in Kinsale, Co Cork, in 2002, Forty Weeks is the culmination of Kirsty’s extensive experience and dedication. The ethos is built on providing holistic, empathetic care and training that supports women through the profound journey of motherhood.

From preconception through to the postnatal period, Forty Weeks aims to empower mothers and students with knowledge, care, and nurturing support, reflecting Kirsty’s deep commitment to holistic health.

For more information on home births in the Kerry region, please visit www.corkandkerryhomebirth.com.