The importance of continuity of care in pregnancy and labour

Good maternity care during labour requires one-to-one care, but sadly this is often not the case. Be aware that no amount of electronic monitoring can ever fill this need.

What does continuity of care mean in labour?
Continuous support during labour from the same maternity caregiver has been associated with a positive childbirth experience. Continuity of care supports trust and familiarity between care provider, often the midwife and the mum-to-be.

In an ideal world, the care would commence in pregnancy. During labour one of her familiar midwives would be there at that time too too help her through the experience. Often it falls on the birth partners to offer that continuous support in labour and relay vital information to the midwife when s/he is present. 

The same group of midwives would continue giving care in those days after birth, which in the UK is often carried out by an unknown Health Visitor.

Wouldn't you agree that this would be a better model of care?

Read more on the NHS website: The importance of continuity of carer in maternity services