A CHARTER for pregnant women should be established, according to a report published yesterday by the Department of Health.
The report of the Maternity and Infant Care Scheme Review Group makes a number of recommendations aimed at reducing the risk of a woman having a bad experience while giving birth in a hospital. It says the dignity and autonomy of a mother should be respected.
The report advises that a system of combined care, where the mother is under the care of both her GP and hospital obstetrician, is, for most, the best and most convenient form of ante natal care.
It gives a strong endorsement to the policy that the safest place to give birth is in a well equipped and staffed maternity hospital or unit, but recognises that arrangements must be made to cater for those who wish to give birth at home.
The review group suggests some possible solutions, such as a hospital outreach approach, the designation of certain health nurses or contracted private midwives and the involvement of GPs.
Informed consent can only be given, according to the report, when a mother has full knowledge of a procedure to be carried out and it should never be assumed she is aware of what various procedures entail. Clear information should be given by professionals when intervention is indicated. "There should be an acceptance by professionals of the right of a woman to refuse an intervention."
The use of technology should take place only with the full informed consent of a woman except in an emergency.
The report also highlights the entitlement of an expectant mother to time off work to attend ante natal and post natal medical visits or care. The review group recommends that the pregnant woman and her partner should be entitled to time off work to attend ante natal classes.