North Cumbria’s midwives have welcomed 224 babies into the world over the past 4 weeks, including, 120 boys, 104 girls and 2 sets of twins.
Whilst there has been some changes to the way maternity services have been running due to COVID-19, mums and babies have still received the same high quality care and support.
There has been a couple of updates to the service and women are now able to have home births following a temporary pause. Work is also underway to enhance the birthing centre in Penrith and the Trust will advise women when normal service has been resumed following refurbishments.
Amanda Kennett, Head of Midwifery at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“We are really pleased to be able to offer a choice of birthing options for our women again. We know it has been difficult for those who have to change their plans but we have tried to make sure all births have been a positive experience in what are very unusual times.
“In line with national guidance we still have visiting restrictions in place however expectant mums can still have their birthing partner with them to provide support during labour. The birthing partner is able to stay following the birth if mum is anticipated to be discharged home. It is only if mum and baby are admitted onto the post-natal ward following labour where no visitors are permitted.”
Maternity teams, including midwives and health visitors are all still on hand to support women both in hospital and the community.
Amanda adds:
“Having a baby is such a special time and we would never want anyone to feel worried. We are still here to help and would urge mums to contact us if they have any questions at all, that’s what we are here for.
"We would also like to remind parents to make sure their babies and children still get their vaccinations and attend vaccination appointments. Vaccines are an absolutely essential building block of good health and provide essential protection against potentially life-threatening diseases.”