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Click on the link below to arrange your first contact with your midwife

Maternity Visiting Guidance during COVID-19

We understand the importance of ensuring family and friends can visit their loved ones in hospital settings and the benefits this brings. In order to facilitate this, we are continuing to regularly review visiting arrangements based on risk assessments in line with Welsh Government advice. From April 2021, we were able to reintroduce some restricted visiting for birth partners in our maternity services.

COVID-19 infection in pregnancy carries a significantly higher risk of hospitalisation and severe illness when compared with the non-pregnant population, especially in the third trimester and brings a higher risk of preterm birth.

Knowing pregnant women are at an increased risk from COVID-19, we have made the decision to maintain existing social distancing measures at this time to keep mothers, babies and loved ones safe (last reviewed August 2021).

Birth partnersare persons nominated by the woman to accompany her during labour and birth. They are not necessarily life partners, but may be other supportive persons such as a relative, friend or doula.

Essential support assistants are individuals required by women and pregnant people with specific additional support needs, e.g. a support worker or interpreter. Essential support assistants are not classed as visitors in the traditional sense. In some circumstances where a women or pregnant person usually receives care and support from a family member or partner they may nominate this person as their essential support assistant.

Ante Natal Care

Even though we are currently in Alert Level Zero, we are required to carry out specific coronavirus risk assessments and take reasonable measures to make sure we minimise the risk of exposure to coronavirus within our hospital environment. Measures include wearing a mask at all times and maintaining physical distancing (keeping people two metres apart). Therefore we must maintain social distancing measures to keep visitors, their families and our staff safe.

Women can be supported by their birth partner at the following appointments:

12 week dating and ultrasound scan

20 week anomaly ultrasound scan

Attendance at Fetal Medicine Department

Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit

Labour and Post-delivery Care

All women who attend for a labour assessment will have the option of being accompanied by one birthing partner.

One birthing partner may be present through the duration of active labour and the immediate postnatal period.

If women are not in established labour on assessment but require or wish to be admitted for care on the antenatal ward, the birthing partner will be unable to remain with them. They will be able to return once the woman is in established labour.

Women attending for an outpatient induction of labour can be accompanied by their birth partner.

Women on First Floor Maternity, whether antenatal, postnatal or transitional care, will have the opportunity for daily visiting during a specified time period.

Whether in a side room or a bay, visiting will be for a maximum of one 2-hour period per day by 1 named birth partner (the same birth partner who was present during labour and birth if postnatal).

The standardised appointment times for visiting are:

10:00-12:00 (odd numbered beds)

14:00-16:00 (even numbered beds)

Women in single rooms can choose which 2-hour slot from the above, they wish their visitor to attend.
Please do not attend for visiting if you or a member of your household is isolating or if you have any COVID-19 Symptoms.
Visitor process

Visiting is only permitted for the nominated birth partner.

Visitors must maintain the recommended social distancing requirements.

Visitors to the ward will be asked to declare any COVID-19 related symptoms. They will be asked to confirm that they are not currently self-isolating and that they have not been in contact with someone who is suspected of having or is confirmed as having COVID-19.

Visitors are to wear a face mask at all times during the visiting period.

Visitors are to remain with the patient during the visiting period.

If the visitor leaves during the visiting period re-entry will not be permitted.

Visitors must use toilet facilities that are provided for members of the public only.

Visitors are to refrain from sitting on the beds and must not visit other patients.

Visitors are to adhere to hand hygiene recommendations and sanitise their hands on entering and exiting the ward.

Visitors should be encouraged to sanitise their hands on exit from the clinical area and dispose of their face mask at the main doors.

Visitors must not bring in flowers, helium balloons or similar items.

The information for visiting form will need to be signed and contact details provided to assist. Public Health as part of the 'test and trace or test and protect' strategy, should there be a necessity following their visit.

Our Maternity Services

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board provide a wide range of maternity services across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan. Our main services are located in University Hospital of Wales (UHW) with midwifery outpatient services available at University Hospital of Llandough (UHL).

More than 5500 babies are born with us every year and our dedicated midwives, doctors, maternity care support workers and support staff are committed to giving you personalised care of the highest standard to enable a positive birth experience.

We have a range of birth choices available:

Midwifery Led within the University Hospital of Wales

Obstetric Led within the University Hospital of Wales

Homebirth

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Click on the link below to arrange your first contact with your midwife We understand the importance of ensuring family and friends can visit their loved ones in hospital settings and the benefits this brings. In order to facilitate this, we are continuing to regularly review visiting arrangements based on risk assessments in line with Welsh Government advice.

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Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board

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Click on the link below to arrange your first contact with your midwife
Registering your pregnancy with Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB Maternity
Welcome
Our highly skilled team of midwives, obstetricians and neonatologists are here to support and guide you. We will be here for you from the time you find out you are pregnant, to the moment you hold your baby for the first time, and also into those first few days and weeks of parenthood. Above all, our aim is to offer a sensitive and flexible service to meet the specific needs of every woman and her family. We encourage all of our families to be active partners in the planning of their own care.
Our Staff
Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board provides maternity care for women in Bridgend, Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil.

We have three separate hospitals that are able to offer maternity care,

Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend has an antenatal clinic and day assessment unit, obstetric unit, midwifery led birthing rooms, birthing pool and neonatal services.

At Royal Glamorgan Hospital, women and birthing people have the opportunity to attend our Tirion Birth Centre, our freestanding, midwifery led unit. This is a home from home environment used by women whose pregnancies are low risk. Tirion also offers support postnatally to those who may require further breastfeeding support.

In Merthyr Tydfil, Prince Charles Hospital has an antenatal clinic, day assessment unit, triage assessment service, birthing pools, obstetric unit and an Alongside Midwifery Led Unit. Neonatal services are also available at this location.
Important Contact Numbers

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Click on the link below to arrange your first contact with your midwife Registering your pregnancy with Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB Maternity Welcome Our highly skilled team of midwives, obstetricians and neonatologists are here to support and guide you.

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Maternity Services, Princess Of Wales Hospital 

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Maternity Services, Princess Of Wales Hospital 

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Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board

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1. Home

2.  ›  Services

3.  ›  Maternity

4.  ›  Birth Choices

Here at Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, we want your birthing experience to be as positive and fulfilling as possible. It is a very personal choice relating to where to give birth, and we offer a variety of options to suit your needs. This leaflet is designed to provide an overview of the birthing environments that are available within Cwm Taf Morgannwg. More detailed information regarding birth environments and birth planning will be provided throughout your pregnancy journey.

Tirion Freestanding Midwifery-Led Unit (Tirion Birth Centre), Royal Glamorgan Hospital

Tair Afon Alongside Midwifery Unit, Prince Charles Hospital, Merthyr Tydfil and Midwifery-led rooms, Princess of Wales Hospital, Bridgend

Obstetric Units at Prince Charles Hospital, Merthyr Tydfil and Princess of Wales Hospital, Bridgend.

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Here at Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, we want your birthing experience to be as positive and fulfilling as possible. It is a very personal choice relating to where to give birth, and we offer a variety of options to suit your needs. This leaflet is designed to provide an overview of the…

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NHS - Where To Have Your Baby (First Babies)

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NHS - Where To Have Your Baby (First Babies)

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Wye Valley Maternity Service

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Maternity

Continuation of Maternity Services during social distancing measures for COVID-19
For the latest advice for pregnant women and their families click on this link - The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) have guidance which is being regularly updated Updated 28 April 2020 -
We appreciate that this is a worrying time for you and your families. In Herefordshire the maternity services team has been working hard to plan how our services will continue to provide safe care during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Virtual tour of maternity unit - 3/6/20

We have created a virtual tour of the unit. We hope this will help you to prepare for your birthing journey with us. Click here to view the video.
Updated 1 April 2020 - important changes for partners attending/visiting
Women will still be able to have their birth partner for the duration of their time on delivery suite. If you are being induced on maternity ward, your partner will be called in when you start contracting or when you are transferred to delivery suite.

For elective C-Sections, partners will be able to attend these as normal. We practice enhanced recovery and expect that most women will be discharged within 24 hours of their surgery.
After any birth, we will strive to discharge all women as soon as possible. Sometimes straight from our delivery suite, so there will be no separation in these circumstances. We would ask you to make arrangements as soon as possible; so that once your discharge is planned there is no delay in leaving the ward area.
We hope you can understand that this has been a difficult decision, however our main priority is the safety of women and their babies at this time.

There will be plenty of support available from our midwives, maternity support workers and transitional care workers to help you in the early days should you need to stay on the ward.

Please note that those receiving bereavement care will not be affected by this rule, as all bereavement care takes place on delivery suite.

Further advice on social distancing measures can be found on the government internet page by clicking here.

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) have guidance which is being regularly updated and can be found:
We will be reviewing and updating our information as changes in guidance occurs. This will be available through the Trust website and also from your community midwife. We would like to thank you for your support and cooperation during these challenging times.
Updated 28/4/20 - vidoe calls are not permitted during scanning
Video calls are not permitted during scanning for a number of reasons including women being required to lay in a neutral position for the scan which can be affected during a video call, confidential information is displayed on the scanning machine, and the sonographer must be allowed to concentrate fully throughout the scanning as the clinical aspect of the examination is a priority, as detailed below.

Patients undergoing antenatal scans are required to lay in a neutral positions to be able to obtain diagnostic imaging. Various positions have been trialled that patients would need to be in to be able to film the scan/themselves and it is apparent this causes undue twisting and tensing of the abdominal muscles making the scan near impossible.

· Confidential information is held on the scan machine screen and within the scan room and the inadvertent sharing of this cannot be mitigated against if filming is allowed.

· Sonographers fully appreciate the bonding that parents develop during ultrasound imaging but the clinical aspect of the examination is our priority in these difficult times. Sonographers must be allowed to concentrate on all of the important elements of the scanning and not distracted from this in any way.

· If the sonographer identifies any abnormalities during the scan, partners will be allowed to attend the unit to support women following the scan and receive support from our staff (this will not take place in the scanning room).

Outline of the service

The Maternity service cares for low and high risk women across a large and diverse demographic area.

As a Maternity team we work together to ensure women and babies receive the best care possible and to ensure a healthy and positive birthing outcome for all. We believe in an equitable service for all women and ensure compliance with national directives and agenda's and work to ensure patient safety at all times.

The Maternity service consists of Delivery suite (inclusive of Obstetric theatre and water birth facilities), Maternity ward (antenatal and postnatal care), Community midwifery service (including home births), Antenatal clinic and Day assessment facilities.

The Maternity service team consists of Head of Midwifery, Consultant Obstetricians, deputy head of midwifery, Senior Midwives, Midwives and Maternity support workers, health care assistants, housekeepers and ward clerks who supports the administration of these areas.

Parenting and birth workshops

Find out about breastfeeding workshops and support available, water birth, active birth workshop and how to find out about other antenatal classes by clicking here. Please also visit the page below for more infant feeding information.

Infant feeding

Wye Valley NHS Trust was recognised by UNICEF in 2019 for work with mothers and newborn babies and awarded Baby Friendly Status. There is a high level of support for all mothers with infant feeding choices. Click here to find out more about infant feeding and support.

Contact us

Contact details for the maternity ward are available in the contacts box on the top right of this page. View the maternity visiting times, Contact the delivery suite or women's health ward visiting times.

Friends and Family Test

As you progress through your pregnancy and access different services, you will be given the opportunity to answer the NHS Friends and Family Test. The Friends and Family Test is a simple question that patients will be asked about the care they have received. The test is part of a way of gathering patient feedback and driving improvement in NHS hospital services across the country. To find out more about the Friends and Family Test click here.

Maternity healthcare information and online patient record information

We have introduced a new maternity electronic patient record system. This means that we no longer use paper forms for recording information about your maternity care. It also means that general maternity healthcare information that you will require during pregnancy is now available on this website.

Bereavement suite

The bereavement suite at Hereford County Hospital opened on 27 July 2019 following a successful public fundraising campaign which totalled just over £100,000, including donations from local charities.

It provides bereaved parents and their families a private sanctuary to use as they come to terms with the loss of their baby. To find out more about the bereavement suite please speak to your midwife and you can also follow this link. to find out about the background of the appeal.

Links with other Departments

Within our maternity service we have a maternity triage which is a 24 hour assessment area where women and their families can easily access and receive prompt care. C lick to find our more about maternity triage.

We work very closely with the Special Care Baby Unit, Accident and Emergency and medical teams and through these close links are able to ensure that women and babies receive the best possible care.

Other Information

The Maternity Service recently received a 'better performing' rating from the Healthcare Commission.

For more information on maternity and neonatal services across the county, and support available for famillies beflore, during and after birth, visit BirtHWays - the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Local Maternity System website.

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Continuation of Maternity Services during social distancing measures for COVID-19 For the latest advice for pregnant women and their families click on this link - The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) have guidance which is being regularly updated Updated 28 April 2020 - We appreciate that this is a worrying time for you and your families.

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NHS - Where To Have Your Babies (For Women Who Have Had A Baby Before)

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NHS - Where To Have Your Babies (For Women Who Have Had A Baby Before)

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Warwick Maternity Hospital

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Community services

In addition we have five community midwifery teams who support you wherever you live in South Warwickshire and the surrounding areas.

Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU)

If your baby is born early or requires special medical and nursing care, they will be looked after in our Special Baby Care Unit. Baby's parents, grandparents and siblings are welcome to visit anytime. A maximum of two other visitors are allowed between 18:30 - 19:30 and all visitors must be accompanied by a parent at all times. As babies are very vulnerable at this time, they should not be visited by anyone who is unwell with a cold, recent diarrhoea or vomiting, or any infection.

NHS Warwickshire Stop Smoking in Pregnancy Service

For help and advice click here.

Certificate of Commitment by the UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative

Warwick Hospital is delighted to have been awarded a Certificate of Commitment by the UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative. This recognises our commitment to supporting parents to make informed choices about how they feed and care for their babies. Warwick Hospital is proud to be working towards full Baby Friendly accreditation.

The Birth Experience Listening Service

At Warwick hospital we offer all women who have had a baby here, an opportunity to discuss the events surrounding their baby's birth. If you think you could benefit from the opportunity to discuss your birth experience, please call us on our confidential answerphone. A maternity staff member will call you back as soon as possible to arrange a face-to-face appointment with an experienced midwife. We try to arrange appointments to take place within 2-4 weeks of your call. There is no time limit after the birth, however we recommend that you wait at least 6-8 weeks so that you have had time to process what has happened. You can bring your birth partner (or somebody else) with you if you would like to. Email: Birth.listening@swft.nhs.uk

Maternity Partnership

This is a forum for parents and professionals to work together to support and improve local maternity services.Email: maternity.feedback@swft.nhs.uk

SANDS - Stillborn and Neonatal Death Charity

Sands is a national helpline is for anyone who has been affected by the death of a baby and wants to talk to someone about their experience.
Tel: +44(0) 808 1643332 Email: helpline@sands.org.uk

Twins and Multiple Births Association (TAMBA)

TAMBA is a charity set up by parents of twins, triplets and higher multiples and interested professionals.
Tel: +44(0) 1252 332344
Email: enquiries@tamba.org.uk

Antenatal Results and Choices (ARC)

ARC is a national charity which provides non-directive support and information to parents before, during and after antenatal testing.
Tel: +44(0) 845 0772290 or if you are calling from a mobile phone: +44(0) 207 7137486
E-mail: info@arc-uk.org

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In addition we have five community midwifery teams who support you wherever you live in South Warwickshire and the surrounding areas. If your baby is born early or requires special medical and nursing care, they will be looked after in our Special Baby Care Unit. Baby's parents, grandparents and siblings are welcome to visit anytime.

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Gloucester Maternity Services

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Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

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Our maternity service provides care for more than 6,000 families in Gloucestershire every year. Find out about our services and what to expect during your pregnancy, labour and birth.

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Our maternity service offers a range of high quality ante-natal and post-natal care for women and their babies.

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Caesarean Birth Information

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Worcester Hospital Maternity

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Maternity Services - NHS Worcestershire Acute Hospitals

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Birmingham Womens Maternity

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Birmingham Women's Hospital Foundation Trust

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The first Birmingham maternity hospital was established in 1842 to reduce the number of women and children dying needlessly from puerperal fever and childbirth related infections. Since those early beginnings, we have outgrown several hospitals and provided innovative solutions to maternity challenges that have had an impact across the world.

The maternity "flying squads" are part of modern maternity care. They were the brainchild of a BWH consultant, Dame Hilda Lloyd almost a century ago, saving the lives of countless Birmingham mothers and babies in the 1920s.

Today we deliver more than 8,000 babies every year - making us one of the busiest maternity departments in the UK.

With the highest standards of healthcare quality and safety we put mothers at the centre of their maternity care and empower them to make decisions about how they want to give birth so that your birthing experience is memorable for all the right reasons.

We have a team of experienced Midwives and Consultant Obstetricians and healthcare professionals, who are on hand to answer all your questions, no matter how big or small. Educational classes to prepare you for childbirth are available for you and your partner, as well as exercise classes to help maintain general fitness and get your body ready for having a baby.

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Maternity - Birmingham Women's Hospital Foundation Trust

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The first Birmingham maternity hospital was established in 1842 to reduce the number of women and children dying needlessly from puerperal fever and childbirth related infections. Since those early beginnings, we have outgrown several hospitals and provided innovative solutions to maternity challenges that have had an impact across the world.

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Netherbrook Midwife Led Unit Solihull

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Published/updated: 06/07/15 13:45

Netherbrook Birth Unit (Solihull) provides midwifery care to low risk women.

The care given is individualised and personal recognizing that women and their families have a right and responsibility to assume an active role in their own healthcare

Facilities:

Large open plan design

Refurbished to exceptionally high standards

1 en-suite birthing room with a large deep birthing pool (Ocean Room)

1 shared en-suite birthing room with a large deep birthing pool (Seabreeze Room)

1 shared en-suite birthing room (Orchid Room)

2 post natal bedrooms with shared en-suite (Springfield Room & Peony Room)

Large dining/mobilizing room

Tea & coffee making facilities

Environment:

Staff recognise that labour and birth is a normal life event and that every woman and her baby is unique.

Staff are kind, friendly and highly skilled. There are no doctors present on the unit.

We aim to provided 1:1 midwifery care during and after birth.

Clean private rooms, with dignity respected at all times.

Available Pain Relief:

Music

Soft mats

Birthing balls

TENs

Birthing pools for labour and/or birth

Gas & Air (Entonox)

Pethidine or Morphine injections

Epidurals are not available on Netherbrook Birth Unit

After birth:

Time to rest and reflect on your birth in a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere.

Advice and practical help with feeding

Parent craft advice available if required.

Early transfer home 4-6hours following birth when appropriate.

Inclusion Criteria for Netherbrook Birth Unit:

As Netherbrook Birth Unit is a 'stand alone' unit, women who wish to birth at the unit must be experiencing a normal pregnancy with no previous pregnancy complications or any adverse medical history.

A risk assessment will be completed at booking by your community midwife and again at 36 weeks of pregnancy

Midwives on Netherbrook Birth Unit invite you to make an informal visit to view the unit and discuss your options.

Please be aware that midwives on the unit do not perform forceps or ventouse births and if you require review by a doctor at any stage in your labour you will be transferred to Heartlands Hospital accompanied my a midwife from the birth unit in an ambulance.

NB Although ante natal care is provided at Solihull, please do not assume the birth of your baby will be here at the unit, unless your community midwife or a midwife on the birth unit has confirmed your suitability and clearly documented this in your pregnancy held records.

Some quotes from our comments books:
Thank you for making the most amazing day of my life a fantastic experience.

All the midwives were wonderful during my birth.

Your kindness and thoughtfulness after the birth completed the most spectacular day of my life.

We will never forget you, thank you so much for the care you all showed.

........................

1st new mom to deliver 7th August 2010 12:54 pm 8lb 8oz

25/12/10 Christmas Day!!!

I just have to say what a wonderful maternity ward this is. This is my 4th child and this is the best place I've ever given birth (I've not been here before)

The midwives have been fantastic, and I mean that from the bottom of my heart

We are so happy to have had our baby on Christmas Day (3 weeks early) and being a boy has made it even more special.

This maternity unit deserves a medal! It's spotless, calm, inviting, relaxing - what more could you ask for.

All I can say is THANK YOU! and have a lovely Christmas!!

...................

To all the staff on the Solihull Birth Unit (especially Zoe)

A big thank you for being so welcoming and patient and helping so much with the delivery.

A special thank you to Zoe who stayed with us for several hours until our daughter was born and helping with the delivery.

It has been a wonderful experience having a water birth here.

I am ever so grateful to Zoe, Carolynn, Pauline and Lorraine

...................

WOW!

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff at Solihull Birthing Unit.

We had an amazing birthing experience that has surpassed all our expectations.

This facility and it's staff are 1st class.

We would highly recommend this service to any prospective family.

Thanks once again, and please continue with this great service

09/12/2011

....................

14/02/14

Thank you so much for all the wonderful care, support, kindness and time you took in taking care of me at such a vulnerable time.

You made me feel relaxed and safe all the way through and brought our beautiful daughter safely into the world. We couldn't of asked for anything more.

Thank you Julie, Zoe, Jenny and Pat for all your help, care and patient. What a lovely team of midwives. You can tell you enjoy your job.

Thank you once again

.................

Words just can't describe how wonderful this experience has been.

The staff here are all amazing.

Baby James was born in the birthing pool and he loved having his Daddy here overnight with him. There was lots of support for Mummy & Daddy here.

Thank you so very much!

Love ..............

Born: 1st August 2013

7lb 8oz

10th May 2014

Thank you so much for everything!

We could not have asked for better care and attention!

We have had all three of our children at Solihull and I would recommend it to anyone who is fortunate enough to be able to come here!

It almost makes me sad not to be having any more!!

Thank you once again

.........................

Dear Zoe, Pauline and Denise,

We just wanted to say a big thank you for the way you looked after me at Ava's birth in 21st February. We felt like we were in good hands which made the birth a positive experience, even the transfer to Heartlands after birth. We'll look forward to seeing you at our 2nd....not yet!!

From ......................

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Netherbrook Birth Unit - Solihull Hospital

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Published/updated: 06/07/15 13:45 Netherbrook Birth Unit (Solihull) provides midwifery care to low risk women.

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Heartlands, Good Hope and Solihull Hospital

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Published/updated: 10/07/12 15:24

Our Maternity departments at Heartlands, Solihull and Good Hope hospitals provide women with care prior to and throughout pregnancy, delivery and following the birth. Care is also provided in hospital, women's homes and at surgeries. The type of care available ranges from 'low tech' support and encouragement of normal birth to high quality provision with a dedicated Obstetric High Dependency Unit for complex cases.

Over 6,000 women give birth each year at the Princess of Wales Women's Unit at Birmingham Heartlands Hospital while Good Hope Hospital Maternity unit sees the delivery of approximately 3,000 babies per year. There is a midwife-led unit at Solihull Hospital and our community midwifery service also facilitates home birth.
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Published/updated: 10/07/12 15:24 Our Maternity departments at Heartlands, Solihull and Good Hope hospitals provide women with care prior to and throughout pregnancy, delivery and following the birth. Care is also provided in hospital, women's homes and at surgeries.

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Birmingham Womens Birth Centre

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Home | Birmingham Women's and Children's

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Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust is a brand new organisation, providing the very best of family-centric care for Birmingham and beyond.

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Worcester Meadows Birth Centre

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Where You Can Have Your Baby

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Most women in the UK get their maternity care for free through the NHS, but there are also private options available.
From paying for scans and doulas to private hospitals and amenity beds, this guide explains what services are available before, during and after giving birth.

We also list the pros and cons for both NHS and private maternity services and reveal what you might expect to pay if you decide to go private.
For ways to keep your family living costs down, and kids of all ages happy,
NHS vs private maternity care: pros and cons

Whether you choose private or NHS maternity care, there are benefits and disadvantages. We'll go into more detail further down the page but here's a quick overview of how they differ.

NHS maternity care: pros

It's free. This is from your first appointment through to scans, antenatal care, the birth itself and postnatal care. There may be some exceptions for non-UK residents but you'll never be turned away from NHS maternity care.

Access to a range of experts. If your birth becomes complicated, you'll have direct access to some of the world's best experts, without having to worry that your costs will rack up.

You still have choices. Whether it's at home, in a hospital or at a birth centre, having an NHS birth still gives you scope to somewhat tailor your experience. You have more options than you might realise. For example you can ask to use a different hospital rather than one that your GP may refer you to locally and you can also request to have an elective c-section .

NHS maternity care: cons

You might not get the birth you want. For example, if you've chosen a water birth but all the birthing pools at your chosen facility are occupied when you need one. The NHS will try to support your wishes but it may not always be possible.

You might not feel as supported as with private care. Staff shortages are a reality in NHS hospitals compared to private hospitals. Also, shift changes can mean you might have various midwives looking after you, even when you're labouring and this may be unsettling for you at the various stages of your pregnancy and birth.

Private maternity care: pros

A team of familiar experts. Whether it's an obstetrician or midwife-led delivery, you'll have the added reassurance of getting to know your team throughout your maternity care and birth.

Regular contact. One of the things you're paying for is their time so you may feel you can contact the facility as much as you like without feeling like you're bothering anyone. You might even have the mobile number of your obstetrician for out of hours use.

Hotel-like facilities. Luxury and privacy are standard and facilities often include 24-hour room service, satellite TV and premium toiletries in your ensuite bathroom. Unlike NHS hospitals, which tend to be strict on visiting hours, there may be more flexibility for visitors to come and see you if you've gone private, plus your partner may be able to stay.

Private maternity care: cons

It's expensive. Private care can cost many thousands of pounds and even with a package there may be lots of added extras such as epidurals, induction or instrumental delivery. The earlier in your pregnancy you start with a care package, the more you'll pay. You'll also pay more if you're expecting multiples.

You may end up with NHS treatment anyway if something goes wrong. The Portland Hospital for example has its intensive care facilities for newborns and mums, but most private delivery services are situated within or next to NHS hospitals and will use their facilities in an emergency, such as the obstetric emergency theatre on a standard labour ward.

There might not be one near you. Private maternity facilities aren't as common as NHS ones so you may have to travel to get to one. If your birth happens quickly and unexpectedly, you might not have time to get there. Most are in the London area so if you factor in antenatal care and unforeseen events such as going into labour early, it might not work for you unless you're London-based.

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Can I give birth in a private hospital?

Yes, you can choose to give birth in a private maternity hospital or unit or pick and choose aspects of private maternity care that suit your needs.

For example, although the NHS offers expectant mums at least two ultrasound scans during pregnancy , some people want 3D or 4D scans to see the baby's features more closely and these are only available privately.

What's it like giving birth in a private hospital?

If you're giving birth in a private hospital or on a private wing, your obstetrician will usually look after you in labour, but you can also have midwife-led care, depending on the package you've paid for.

Once you've given birth, you'll have a private ensuite room at the hospital with hotel-like facilities such as a concierge, luxury toiletries and 24-hour room service.

The cost of your room is usually included in the price although you can pay more to stay for extra nights or to upgrade to a suite.

Private midwives will then support you for your immediate postnatal care.
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How much does it cost to give birth at a private hospital?

When we looked in December 2022, the lowest cost we found for a vaginal/normal delivery with a consultant at a private hospital was £5,500 and the lowest for a c-section was £6,300 but this is a starting price. There are a number of variables and added extras to factor in when working out what the total cost might be.

Consultant-led or midwife-led delivery? A 'consultant-led' normal birth is different from a 'midwifery-led' birth, which is generally suitable for low-risk pregnancies. However, it still isn't cheap - we found one that started at £8,015 but extra charges could be added on if you stay beyond one night and have interventions such as an epidural or induction.

Your consultant's professional fees will be charged separately and it's likely the anesthetist's will too, so contact their administrative staff beforehand for an idea of what these might be.

Vaginal delivery, elective c-section or emergency c-section? Each of these incur a different cost. For example, a consultant-led 'normal' delivery at the Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital in Paddington has a basic price of £6,300 whereas a consultant-led c-section is £8,000 (plus consultant's fees in both cases). Not only that but you may want to check how many nights' stay you get after a c-section. Some, such as the Westminster Wing at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital , include two nights' stay whereas many others only include one then charge anything from £750 to £1,325 for each additional night.

Unexpected extras. Unforeseen interventions such as epidurals, instrumental deliveries, inductions and delivering a baby in breech position may be charged for separately and could collectively add thousands to your final bill, not to mention if you end up having an emergency c-section. You may need to spend some time in hospital before the birth and you'll be charged for this, too. For example, per night an antenatal admission at the Kensington Wing at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital costs £1,325.

Where you live. It may be that where you live could affect not only your access to private maternity facilities, most of which are based in London, but also what you pay. Although a London private birth is expensive, one offers private delivery including up to a three-night hospital stay (plus follow up) for £17,000.

How do you pay? You may be asked to pay half of your fees as early as 20 weeks and although some private facilities offer payment plans, many will ask for BACS transfer or credit card payment. Get a breakdown of what's included before you sign up.

Why do parents choose to give birth in a private hospital?

In our 2022* survey, we asked 1,424 parents about where they had given birth - almost all had done so in an NHS hospital (90%) and around 4% gave birth in a private hospital or private wing.

There are various reasons you might choose to give birth in a private hospital or clinic, including:

A desire for additional comfort and/or privacy

Having more say in your care

The chance to develop a closer relationship with your midwife and/or consultant

Easy access to additional scans such as 3D and 4D ultrasound scans

*Baby & Child survey carried out in February 2022. - we compare the leading brands to discover whether one is better than another
What maternity care can I get on the NHS?

NHS antenatal care

With the NHS, you get seven to 10 antenatal appointments with a midwife, as well as blood tests and at least two free .

If you have more complicated needs, you'll also see a consultant (doctor) in addition to your midwife appointments.

NHS when giving birth

Most women have their baby in an NHS maternity unit. If you choose to have a home birth, two NHS midwives will come to your home to support you during the birth.

Whether you give birth in a birth centre or a labour ward, you'll always have your own room for the birth itself and be looked after by midwives. However, if you're induced you may need to spend time on a shared antenatal ward.

Similarly, if you need to stay overnight after the birth it's likely you'll be moved to a postnatal ward, where you'll be sharing a room and bathroom with a number of other women and their babies.

NHS postnatal care

Immediately after giving birth in an NHS facility, you'll go home a few hours after a straightforward birth or after a couple of days if you've had a c-section or experienced complications.

You'll have postnatal appointments with NHS midwives once you're back home. This may be at your home, or at a local clinic or children's centre.

The number of appointments varies, but most women tend to see a midwife three or four times postnatally.
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How can I enhance my NHS maternity care?

You can still choose aspects of private maternity care to suit your needs, even if you're not going completely private. In fact, our 2022 survey showed that out of just over 1,400 parents, nearly all had paid for private services during pregnancy or birth.

Private pregnancy scans and blood tests

Our 2022 research showed that almost all parents (83%) had a private scan during the pregnancy and around one in five (19%) had a private blood test.

The NHS provides you with all the diagnostic scans you need but some people pay for extras such as 3D and 4D scans at private clinics or private hospitals to enhance their experience, such as being able to see their baby's features more clearly and to get video footage of it.

For more information see our guide to NHS and private ultrasound scans during pregnancy .

Private amenity room after the birth

Women having an NHS birth sometimes choose to pay to hire a private 'amenity' room within the NHS maternity unit, which give you more privacy but where you'll still be looked after by NHS midwives.

The rooms are often just off the postnatal ward, and can cost anything from around £80 up to five times that, depending on where you are in the UK.

Our research showed that while just 6% of parents opted for a private amenity room in the NHS, almost all (97%) found it useful.

Hiring a doula

A doula is someone who has training in supporting expectant and new parents, rather than a health professional, and as such they're not there to replace midwives or other health staff.

Your doula can work with you during your pregnancy, be with you as a birth partner or advocate, or provide support in the early days postnatally - their service is tailored to your needs.
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In our survey, 5% of respondents paid to have a doula and 90% said they found it useful.

Is NHS maternity care always free?

The rules say no-one should ever be denied NHS maternity care, but in some cases it isn't free.

The UK has a residence-based healthcare system so if you are 'ordinarily resident' here you're entitled to free NHS maternity care, whatever your citizenship or immigration status.

However, who is considered 'ordinarily resident' when it comes to NHS charging is complicated and the charity Maternity Action has a guide to who is considered 'ordinarily resident' in the UK to help you see where you stand.

Each NHS Trust has an Overseas Visitor Team with responsibility for reaching a decision about whether you'll be charge for your maternity care if you aren't ordinarily resident.

Can I choose to go private mid-way through my pregnancy?

Yes, and this may give you the benefit of some private care but without incurring the full cost.

To give you some idea, delivery by an obstetrician at the private facility of is £6,500 from 12 weeks of pregnancy, £5,500 from 28 weeks, £5,000 from 32 weeks and £4,500 from 36 weeks, although you'll generally pay 50% of your fees as early as 20 weeks and the remainder by 36 weeks.

Some private facilities - for example, the Sir Stanley Clayton Ward at Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital in west London - have a consultant-led late transfer elective c-section package suitable for patients from 38 weeks onwards and this starts at £6,795 (excluding extras).

However, in other situations you could find that the amount it costs is the same as if you started it early on in your pregnancy.

For example, , which represents independent midwifery, says that because an independent midwife has fixed costs to bear and will often have to work harder within a short space of time to give you the care you need, you still pay the full amount.

If you cancel - for example, to return to the NHS - you may be charged a cancellation fee (e.g. £400 at the Lindo Wing).
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You should be aware that, as per Department of Health guidelines, if you transfer from private to NHS care you're not permitted to change back to private care.

Can I pay for a private room in an NHS hospital after the birth?

The availability of private or 'amenity' rooms following delivery varies from one hospital to the next, as does the price.

Some offer single amenity rooms with shared facilities and some have private rooms with ensuite facilities. They may also have tea and coffee facilities and a television - some even allow someone to stay with you overnight.

However, even if your hospital has them, there's no guarantee you'll get one. They tend to be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis and can't be held or booked in advance.

Also, if you are occupying an amenity room that is needed by someone with a clinical need, you may have to relocate to an alternative room or a postnatal ward.

The cost varies from one hospital to the next but can start at around £80 for a single room with shared bathroom facilities, rising to, in some cases, upwards of £400 a night but whatever you pay, you are still an NHS patient and won't be given preferential treatment.

Can I hire a private midwife?

Yes, if you want more flexibility in your maternity care than the NHS can provide, you can look into hiring a private or independent midwife.

says a complete package of care throughout pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period costs anywhere between £2,000 and £5,000, although it can cost as much as almost £9,000.

Most independent midwives are happy to accept payment in instalments or flexible payment plans, and in some special circumstances they may consider caring for women for a reduced fee.

In this video, an independent midwife explains what she believes are the benefits of using a paid-for, non-NHS midwife for maternity care.

Having a home birth with a private midwife

Many women who choose to have an independent or private midwife are planning to have a home birth.

Private midwives can be a good option if you're finding it difficult to get support for a home birth from your local NHS services.

If you're having a home birth with a private midwife, there's still the possibility you may need to be transferred to hospital because you or your baby needs extra help.

In this case, the NHS midwives and doctors in the hospital will take over your care. However, your private midwife will still be there to act as a supportive birth partner.

Postnatal care with a private midwife

Women who have given birth with private midwives can pay to carry on seeing the same midwife they had throughout their pregnancy, after the baby is born.

Others may choose to supplement their NHS postnatal care by having additional private appointments as well.
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As well as providing continuity of care, a private midwife can assist if you're having problems with breastfeeding and will also be a familiar face if you've had a challenging or difficult birth.

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NHS vs private maternity care: what are your options? - Which?

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We compare the pros and cons of NHS and private maternity care. Learn about the antenatal care and birth options available for free through the NHS, and what private midwives and hospitals can offer, how much it costs and what you can access

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Birth Partners

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Whether it's your partner, daughter or friend due to give birth, it's an honour to be asked to be a birth partner. Yet this exciting role can also be daunting. Here we discuss some top tips to help you get ready.

You'll find a whole number of ways you can help support the mum-to-be during labour (NHS Choices, 2017a). One place to start is by talking to them in advance about their expectations of you - ask them how they'd like you to support them. This will help you both feel more prepared ahead of the birth and confident in your role as birth partner (NHS Choices, 2017b).

Watch this video for tips on how to support your partner during labour.

1. Be prepared

Birth partners should be prepared and ready. The weeks around their due date are not a good time to book an impromptu holiday or be in a meeting with your mobile phone switched off.

Talk through their birth plan (if they have one) with the mum-to-be well in advance. Attending birth classes like an NCT course together can help you learn about what to expect in labour (Which? Birth Choice, 2018). Classes will also help you write a birth plan if you want one (Which? Birth Choice, 2018).

Ask your partner if there are any specific ways they would like you to support them during labour and the birth. Also ask about any no-go areas. And know your limits too - if there are bits of the birth you prefer not to get hands on with, make it clear beforehand. For example, let her know if you don't want to help cut the baby's umbilical cord.

If you're planning to use any new kit during labour like a TENS machine, make sure you test it out ahead of time and know how to use it.

2. Be there and know what she wants

The number one thing you can do for a woman in labour is be there as continuous support for them and help them with whatever they need at the time. Research has shown that having a familiar birth partner present throughout labour can help improve the birth experience (Bohren et al, 2017).

Whether that's simply being there to hold her hand, or offering moral support and bringing some positive energy to the room (NHS, 2017b). Try to talk about what emotional, physical and practical support she would like too. Help her write down a birth plan or talk through it if she would like to. That way, you know her preferred birth choices like the back of your hand.

3. Provide company

During the early stages of labour you can help keep her company, make sure she is comfortable and help pass the time together.

You might be able to go for a walk together in the early stages of labour, watch television, listen to music or read together.

You can assist with whatever helps the mum-to-be feel comfy. She might like you to help her to bath, you could fetch her some relaxing creature comforts, or give her a hand to keep moving.

You'll also need a break. Make sure you bring some snacks for you too and wear comfy clothes to keep yourself in top form (Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS, 2015).

4. Give her practical support

You can help in lots of practical ways. You could drive the mum-to-be to the hospital, carrying her hospital bag and helping her check into the birthing suite or hospital (NHS, 2017b).

When you get there, you could do things like helping her to move around the room and change positions. She might love you to give her a back rub or get her a cup of tea.

If she is planning a home birth you can help set up everything she needs at home, whether that's a birthing pool or somewhere comfy for the mum-to-be. On the day you could offer to get the mum-to-be a hot drink and make phone calls to keep family updated.

The key here is to discuss and plan in advance what practical support she would like you to provide.

5. Provide emotional support

As the mum-to-be's labour progresses and contractions get stronger you can be her rock, comforting and reassuring her. Simple gestures like holding or squeezing her hand and giving positive words of encouragement can really help.

6. Support her physically and take care of yourself

You can encourage the mum-to-be to keep active during labour and help her move about or change positions so she feels more comfortable (NHS, 2017b). You could also offer to massage her back and shoulders, wipe her face with a cold flannel, or simply give her a reassuring hug. You might also find you need to back off a bit if she needs space. Ask what she'd prefer.

To continue to support the mum-to-be well during labour, you also need to be on top form. You might be supporting and providing comfort to her for a long time. You may even find you haven't slept all night and are extremely tired.

So take time out if you need it - whether that's going for a quick toilet break, getting a hot drink or stepping out to make a phone call. Make sure you bring snacks and wear comfy clothes (Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS, 2015).

7. Listen to her

Try to really listen to what she needs on the day. It can be easier said than done but you will need to be intuitive and try and understand what she needs and when. Especially if she is in too much pain to express it well herself.

Be aware that her needs might change as her labour progresses. At times during labour, the mum-to-be might like emotional and physical support. Yet there might be other times when she would like to be left alone to help her focus.

8. Be confident, encourage and motivate

If you are upbeat and confident in a woman's ability to give birth, this will help encourage and support her.

Words are powerful. You can help your partner stay motivated during labour by offering words of encouragement. Tell her how much you love her, how well she is doing. Also respect her wishes if she asks you to be quiet.

Encourage her to use any relaxation and breathing techniques you have learnt, perhaps by doing them with her. She might not be able to see what is happening as the baby is being born. So help to motivate her by telling her what is happening and when you can see the baby's head.

9. Be an advocate

You might need to express the mum-to-be's needs to the midwife or doctor (NHS, 2017b). So help to explain to the health professional what she would like. You might also need to explain to her any new information from the health professionals.

Support the mum-to-be's decisions, even if they're different from what's in her birth plan. She might want to choose a different type of pain relief, for example.

10. Be flexible

Be prepared to be flexible. No two labours are the same and, although you can prepare, you will need to adapt to whatever is working or not working during labour. It's possible that everything will go to plan but you might also find that an urgent medical situation arises and alters the course of the labour.

If this happens, tell the mum-to-be what's happening if you can and continue to encourage and reassure her. This will help her feel more in control of the situation.

You might be waiting a long time for her labour to progress, or you may have to make quick decisions based on medical advice and her best interests. Be prepared to be flexible on the day and go with the flow.

Give yourself a pat on the back too

Being a birth partner can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Yet it can also be nerve wracking and emotionally draining.

As well as congratulating the mum-to-be on their new arrival, don't forget to take some time out for yourself afterwards and talk to a friend about it. Make sure you give yourself some recognition for the part you have played in the baby's birth too.

Further information

Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby and general enquiries for parents, members and volunteers: 0300 330 0700.

We also offer antenatal courses which are a great way to find out more about birth, labour and life with a new baby.

Make friends with other parents-to-be and new parents in your local area for support and friendship by seeing what NCT activities are happening nearby.

Find out more about NCT Doulas and how they can during labour. NCT Doulas provide women, and their partners, with skilled physical and emotional assistance during labour. They have up-to-date knowledge and information about labour and birth and help provide encouragement to woman. This helps enable them to have the type of labour and birth they would like. NCT Doulas are qualified professionals who have completed a professional Doula UK course, developed by NCT in partnership with the University of Worcester.

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Whether it's your partner, daughter or friend due to give birth, it's an honour to be asked to be a birth partner. Yet this exciting role can also be daunting. Here we discuss some top tips to help you get ready. You'll find a whole number of ways you can help support the mum-to-be during labour (NHS Choices, 2017a).

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Homebirth Site But Lots of Really Useful Information on Waterbirth

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Angela Horn's
Home Birth Reference Page

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Doulas

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Doula UK - The non-profit association of doulas in the UK

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Doulas support the whole family to have a positive experience of pregnancy, birth and the early weeks with a new baby. Find a doula near you.

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Straightforward Birth

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Water Birth