Should babies be born at home or in hospital? While it seems the debate will go on forever, the Southern Health Board (SHB) has entered the fray by offering expectant mothers a choice.
Under a new midwifery scheme, women who are deemed to be low risk will be able to rely on the back-up services of the board while having their babies in their own homes free of charge.
The pilot scheme is being run in conjunction with Community Midwives Cork, and the service will be provided by a team of seven experienced midwives who will provide care throughout pregnancy, labour and delivery, and after the baby is born. Women who have no history of medical or surgical problems and no previous complications during pregnancy, are eligible to apply.
Expectant mothers are asked to make an appointment at the maternity hospital of their choice to have a discussion with hospital staff. A plan for care during pregnancy is drawn up and the birth plan is discussed, taking into account any particular wishes the expectant mother may have for the management of labour and delivery.
The service will be available throughout Cork city and county.