New support through pregnancy with launch of birth preferences card
Published on 10/09/2024
A birth preferences card is helping new parents across maternity services at UHB.
The card, which was originally developed at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust, enables service users to discuss birth preferences with their care team and support partners.
The card also aims to assist clinicians to have a clear visual guide of women’s preferences during their birth experience.
Service users are given at their 25 to 28 week appointment with time to consider personal preferences before completing it with their midwife at their 34 to 36 week appointment.
This is then kept under review and amended if needed at a later appointment with their midwife or doctor. The card stays with them throughout their birthing journey to ensure their preferences are known by their care team and it can be amended at any stage as clinical needs or preferences change.
Large whiteboard versions of the card have been installed in all birth rooms and induction bays across our services.
This means a woman’s birth preferences can be circled and shown in a clear position in the birthing room, enabling clinicians to see a woman’s preferences at a glance.
If you have any questions about the birth preferences card, email: Annie.lester@uhb.nhs.uk
