Radical change to maternity services (From Barry And District News)

Radical change to maternity services

AS of tomorrow, women in the Vale will have to go to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff if they want consultants on hand when they give birth, following radical changes made by the Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust.

The trust is introducing two new midwifery-led units at Llandough Hospital and at the University Hospital of Wales but transferring all neo-natal services to Cardiff.

The changes mean it will no longer be possible for women to go to a traditional hospital delivery ward in the Vale.

The review of women's services has also led to changes for gynaecology patients, with in-patients services moving from Llandough to UHW, and gynaecology cancer services moving from UHW to Llandough. The changes will be made this week and over the following weekend.

A spokesperson for The Cardiff and Vale Trust said: "Mums-to-be are being advised of the changes to make sure they know where to go for their deliveries.

"These women are also being checked for potential complications with their births, as will all pregnant women, to ensure they receive the right care.

"This important change will provide relaxed surroundings for women giving birth.

"Individual rooms have been designed to make women feel at ease throughout their labour, with warm colours and lighting, and there are birthing pools available to help soothe labour pains or give birth.

"Women who choose to give birth at home will also notice improvements with greater provision for midwives to attend and assist home births.

"Some women will still opt for the University Hospital of Wales, and some will be referred there to have doctors and consultants on hand for women and newborn babies who need extra medical care during and after birth."

Some 5,500 women give birth at Llandough Hospital and the University Hospital of Wales every year.