Women in North Yorkshire call for more support after giving birth
Healthwatch have put together a new report looking at the issues
New Mums in North Yorkshire say they're being asked to travel too far for appointments - when they're still recovering from giving birth.
Around 170 women have been sharing their experiences - in a new report by Healthwatch.
Most said the first visit from a midwife was at home - but then had to go back into hospital for follow ups.
"I was expected to be at York hospital 1 day post-delivery (this kept me out of the house for 4 hours with a brand-new baby) and Selby hospital 3 days post-delivery. Both times I had to sit in waiting rooms waiting for my appointments (which were late)."
“I couldn’t walk after having my baby but had to go to an appointment in the hospital 4 days after giving birth.”
Concern were also raised over the number of appointments held over the phone or online.
"I refused an over the phone contact and said I wanted them to come out, but they refused to come out in person unless I had any concerns, so my baby hasn’t had the one- year check.”
"I have no idea who I can speak to. The second appointment was on video. The call lasted 5 minutes maximum.”
Key findings
Did mothers receive enough support?
• 52% felt they would have liked more support.
Community postnatal visits
• Majority of mothers said the first community midwife and health visitor visits took place at home.
• Mothers praised the quality of care if they had several follow up in person visits.
• Most mothers had their 6–8-week GP check-up at the GP practice.
• For some, subsequent midwife checks were carried out in the community which was challenging for those who had a c-section, live in a rural area, or don’t drive.
• Mothers would prefer in-person health visitor appointments rather than online or phone calls.
Transfer & continuity of care
• Most mothers said they were informed about the transfer of care between the community midwives and health visitors.
• Having continuity of care & personalised care had a positive impact on their postnatal journey.
• Some mothers felt their medical information and personal circumstances were not always communicated between healthcare professionals which led to confusion.
Physical recovery
• Most mothers said healthcare professionals discussed signs and symptoms of physical health problems with them.
• The lack of physical examinations after birth, poor support for c section recovery and lack of support for pelvic health were raised.
Mental health support
• When mothers were able to get the appropriate mental health support the quality of care was praised.
• Most mothers were asked if they had any mental health concerns, but some said discussions felt like a tick box exercise.
Infant feeding support
• Some mothers said the support from the community midwives and health visitors helped them to continue breastfeeding.
• Most mothers said their feeding decisions were respected.
• Some mothers said infant feeding support was too brief, lacked specialised support, and breastfeeding concerns were dismissed.
Infant wellbeing and development
• Most mothers said they were asked about their baby’s general wellbeing and development.
• Some mothers were unhappy due to the loss of baby clinics.
• Mothers would like more opportunities to come together for support, social interaction and to seek advice.
Information provided
• Most mothers received information on key topics and felt they could ask questions about the information.
• Mothers would like more information on recovery and baby care before they give birth.
• Some mothers received conflicting information on feeding, sleeping and baby development.
Additional support
• Valuable support was received from community groups and voluntary organisations.
• Mothers highlighted the importance of advice and support from family and friends