THE big ask is a Daily Echo-backed project to give Dorset residents the chance to share their views about the local NHS. This week, we focus on the services available to mums-to-be and new parents.
FROM antenatal clinics in community settings, to specialist hospital care and support at home, parents-to-be across the county have access to a wide range of services to support them through pregnancy, birth and beyond.
“It’s vital that mums-to-be have a genuine choice when it comes to giving birth,” explains Sandra Chitty, head of midwifery at Poole Hospital.
“Empowering women means supporting them to make the decision that’s right for them.”
Poole Hospital’s maternity services are based at St Mary’s hospital where care is shared between midwifery and medical staff. Facilities include two birthing pools, aroma-therapy and birthing balls.
The midwife-led maternity unit at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital offers one-to-one care in labour and two birthing pool and Dorset County Hospital’s provides a birthing pool and 17 large birthing rooms. All three hospitals also employ teams of community midwives, who provide antenatal clinics in community settings, as well as postnatal care.
“Every woman has a named midwife throughout their pregnancy and postnatal period who they can build a trusting relationship with,” says Jill Shergold, community midwife team leader at St Mary’s. “This continuity helps us to really get to know each woman and understand their needs to ensure that the right support is available.”
Healthy expectant mothers can also have the opportunity of a home birth.
The Royal Bournemouth Hospital’s maternity unit received UNICEF Baby Friendly reaccreditation earlier this year. Dorset County Hospital’s Maternity Unit was also awarded the prestigious Baby Friendly Award in February 2012, and St Mary’s is two years into the three-year accreditation process.
Poole Hospital’s services will be enhanced by a £4m investment.
• To share your views about any of Dorset’s healthcare services, please take part in The Big Ask survey at bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/health/big_ask
Paper copies can be requested from Ehren Milner at the Market Research Group on 01202 961379 or email emilner@bournemouth.ac.uk by September 9.
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