The Cayman Islands is a wonderful place to have a baby and women can expect to receive world class care. Read on for helpful advice, tips and personal experiences from those who work to support expectant mothers on their journey.
Dr Chelsea Walton
Dr Chelsea Walton is a Clinical Psychologist with a growing interest in Perinatal Psychology. She has a five-year-old son and her second baby, a boy called Gabriel, arrived in May, 2025.
Have you suffered from morning sickness and did you find any good remedies?
Yes, during the first trimester. I found that sipping on ice cold drinks and eating small snacks throughout really helped manage the nausea.
What was your biggest health worry whilst being pregnant?
Developing pre-eclampsia, since I had postpartum pre-eclampsia following my first pregnancy.
Have you planned your labour and birth?
I've got a rough plan, but ultimately I am open to doing whatever is medically necessary for my baby's wellbeing and my wellbeing.
Have you been exercising during your pregnancy and what classes or groups would you recommend to other expectant mothers?
I tried to clock as many steps as possible during pregnancy and practised a little yoga at home to relieve aches and pains.
Do you feel that social media has created pressure to look glamorous during pregnancy?
I think that social media, in general, can create pressure to always look good, feel good and be the most interesting person. The flip side is that there are a lot of creators who seem to be more honest about the experience of pregnancy and motherhood.
What is the best pregnancy advice you have received from older relatives or friends which you would pass on to other expectant mothers?
To prioritise my wellbeing and rest, and to ask for help when I need it. It's okay to need support from others and that includes professionals.
Alexandra Douglas
Alexandra Douglas worked as a midwife in her native Australia for several years and is now the Maternity Patient Care Coordinator at Health City at Camana Bay.
Why did you choose your field of specialty?
I’ve always been drawn to supporting women and families during one of the most important and transformative times in their lives. There’s something incredibly special about being part of the journey from pregnancy to parenthood—it’s emotional, powerful and so special. I’m passionate about creating a positive, calm and supportive experience for every family, right from that first conversation. Being able to combine clinical understanding with compassionate care is what makes this field so rewarding for me.
How do you handle unexpected situations and being under pressure in your job?
Staying calm and solution-focused is key when handling unexpected situations. In the moment, it’s essential to provide clear communication, teamwork and keeping patients at the centre of any decisions. Afterwards, I find it helpful to debrief, whether that's with my colleagues to reflect on how we managed the situation, or with my husband for emotional support.
Which medical professional in Cayman would you recommend for a ‘Golden Stethoscope Award’ and why?
Dr Mamatha, our Senior Consultant Obstetrician. Our unit truly wouldn’t run the same without her. She is incredibly dedicated, responsive, caring, compassionate and approachable—a real pillar of strength and calm for both patients and staff. If my husband ever agreed to another baby, there would be absolutely no hesitation—I’d love to have Dr Mamatha by my side.
What would you say to a student who is interested in pursuing a career in Maternity Services?
Do it! Maternity services are one of the most rewarding and meaningful areas of healthcare you can work in. Students are often underrated, but you truly make a difference. I had a gorgeous student midwife by my side during each of my births, and she was an absolute godsend.
Annie Mae Roffey
Annie Mae Roffey is Chairperson & Lactation Counsellor for the Cayman Islands Breastfeeding Support Group.
What training did you need to complete to become a lactation counsellor?
Training included attending courses overseas as well as conferences over the years to update my support skills, based on evidence-based knowledge.
What would you say to someone interested in becoming a lactation consultant?
It is a very gratifying experience to be able to help mothers to overcome breastfeeding challenges resulting in a successful breastfeeding experience. However, it is not always a successful outcome and should never be seen as a failure. Even supporting a mother to come to a decision that is best for her, even if it is to discontinue breastfeeding, is a success. Any amount of breast milk that a mother can give her baby is good.
What is your philosophy on breastfeeding?
The closeness and comfort of breastfeeding helps mothers’ bond with their baby. Breastfeeding also gives infants a healthy start in life, as the colostrum provided in the first three days boosts their immune system, preventing illness and infections. Breast milk meets all the baby’s nutritional needs for the first six months and is available on demand and in adequate supply!
What do you enjoy the most about working in Cayman?
The many different cultures in the community that have taught me about the varied 'mothering' customs/practices that each has. This has encouraged me to always vary my approach in advice and support to mothers.
Can you describe the role you play in supporting new mothers with breastfeeding?
We offer free educational sessions on breastfeeding for expectant parents at the HSA hospital as well as providing support to women in maternity wards, at home and over the phone.
Kate Gormley
Kate Gormley is a midwife at the new maternity unit at Health City Cayman Islands. Originally from Ireland, she trained as a general nurse in the UK and took a post-grad in Midwifery.
What are your strengths and weaknesses as a midwife?
My strengths lie in my calm demeanour, working under pressure and my good clinical decision-making. As for weaknesses, I sometimes carry the emotional weight of my women’s experiences with me, especially in difficult cases.
How would you describe the role of a midwife?
A midwife is more than a healthcare provider—we are educators, advocates and emotional supporters. Our role is to provide holistic, evidence-based care throughout pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period, while empowering women to make informed decisions.
What would you say to a student who is interested in becoming a midwife?
Midwifery is equal parts science, art and heart. It’s deeply rewarding but also challenging. If you are passionate about supporting people and can stay calm in situations, it may be the perfect job for you.
What form of exercise would you recommend for expectant mothers in Cayman?
Prenatal yoga and swimming are ideal here. Both are low-impact, great for circulation and mental wellbeing, and make the most of Cayman’s beautiful natural environment.
What is your overall philosophy on pregnancy, delivery and birth?
Pregnancy and birth are natural, powerful experiences that should be respected and individualised. My philosophy centres around informed choice, compassionate care and trusting the innate strength of women and their bodies.
Which pregnancy book, app or website would you recommend to expectant mothers and why?
The 'What to Expect' app is good for comprehensive and personalised information throughout pregnancy.
