New midwives on board to provide more mums with one-to-one care at Westmead Hospital
Four new caseload midwives have joined Westmead Hospital, bringing the total number of midwives who provide one-to-one care to expectant mums to 14.
The caseload program allows the same midwife to provide support throughout a woman’s pregnancy and birth, and in the early postnatal period.
It provides consistency and flexibility: it works around a woman’s schedule and accommodates her preferred location – her home or the hospital.
The popularity of the program has prompted Westmead Hospital to recruit the new midwives to meet demand, said Carolyn Tranter, Midwifery Unit Manager, Women’s and Newborn Health – Westmead Hospital.
“Women who receive care from a primary midwife are more likely to have a positive childbirth experience,” she said.
“The relationship that is established between a woman and her midwife can build a woman’s self-confidence and reduce anxiety.
“I encourage women can take advantage of this fantastic service.”
Caseload midwifery is available to mothers who are in good health and planning to have a natural birth with no unnecessary interventions. Mothers must live in Parramatta, Holroyd or The Hills.
Women are encouraged to contact their GP and enquire about caseload midwifery as soon as they find out they are pregnant or phone Westmead Hospital on 8890 9129.
