Re: Which Hospital? Also is it true NHS states Salisbury does not offer Epidural?

[sunshine2012]

Hi there,

We are planning a baby and need to consider which hospital will be better. I live in Salisbury but practically know all the midwifes and nursing staff so would feel more at ease being in Southampton or Andover. I have used the NHS comparison website and I was confused as it states epidural isn't offered in Odstock, Salisbury? Is this right? I can't see it would be? So any advice and comments on Andover, Southampton or Salisbury would be great.

Thank you xxx

Hi,

It looks like, as a consultant led unit, they would offer epidurals. Are you looking at the NHS choices website? If so, that data is edited by the hospital so if it's wrong they need to update it - I'd tell your midwife.

I know of people who have had epidurals at salisbury, and as its still consultant led I can't see it would have changed? Andover however, certainly when I had my first, I think didn't. Also weren't able to offer suturing for complicated tears (had to go to winchester or salisbury). Its more of a birthing centre I believe, unless its changed recently. Can't comment on southampton tho!

It says that on NHS choices about my local hospital too - they definitely do. I would ask your midwife about it she will know surely.