CUMBRIAN health chiefs have sought to reassure expectant mums during the pandemic and update them on maternity guidance.

The North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, in line with national advice, has issued the following guidelines:

· Partner/one person from social bubble can accompany for all scans.

· Antenatal appointment – mother should attend alone where possible.

· The birthing partner is able to attend with their partner for labour assessment and throughout labour. Following delivery, whilst the mother remains on delivery suite, the partner can stay. When she is transferred to the postnatal ward, the partner will be asked to leave.

· Each mother is allocated visiting time slots both AM and PM to enable their partner to visit, whilst respecting social distancing and ensuring correct use of PPE.

· The partner can then return to take the woman and baby home on discharge.

Amanda Kennett, associate director of midwifery at the trust said: “Having a baby is such a special time in your life and we want you to have the best possible experience.

"We’re here to offer you lots of support throughout pregnancy, during birth and after the birth of your baby.

“Safety is our top priority and due to the current situation we have had to make some changes to our service in order to protect our patients and our staff.

“If you have any worries regarding your maternity care, your points of contact have not changed. Your midwife is here for you and will be able to discuss your queries.”

For further information go online to: www.ncic.nhs.uk/services/maternity