I have got a place on the Maternity Services Liaison Committee! What would you want your hospital to consider?

[Miaou]

This is for the NHS Highlands, but many of the hospitals face similar issues to elsewhere.

The first meeting isn't until April 5th (and I'll bump this nearer the time) but I would be interested in what issues you think they should be considering. My major concern is that support and information regarding breastfeeding is improved.

I'm still a little hazy on exactly what their remit covers (I guess it's all maternity care, not just hospital/birth issues) but will be asking some more questions before I go.

Any thoughts welcome/appreciated!

more midwives
more birthing pools
prompt epidurals when women ask for them
ture birth choice - if they offer the choice for homebirths they should offer the choice for c/s as well
more privacy (e.g. smaller wards)
more help with infant e.g. have the nurses take them when mother needs a rest
cleanilness

choice of good quality food

In Europe, eg Germany and Switzerland, they have all day buffets with fresh foods where mothers (and partners) can eat whenever and whatever they choose.

The option of your partner staying over.

also, (sorry I keep thinking of more), as they do in Germany, scan for baby's size and postion as labour begins and strep B screening.

me agian, less bloody visitors !

They should have a room for visitors and only allowe partners on the ward.

More birthing pools.
Offering antenatal classes to everyone not just those within the "catchment area" (as some women will opt to go for a hospital outside of their "catchment area" if it is better).
Routine screening for Strep B.

Will probably have more once I've had the baby!