A comprehensive guide Induction of labour (IOL) is the attempt to bring on labour when a woman is not showing any signs of being in labour, it is now a commonly used intervention, with 1 in 3 women experiencing it.  As with any intervention offered in pregnancy and birth, you, as the mother have the option to accept or decline. In order to make that decision you will need up-to-date, evidence-based information about that topic. We want all women to have the same information and to empower you to make the right decision for you, your baby and your family.…

Continuation of Maternity Services during social distancing measures for COVID-19 We appreciate that this is a worrying time for you and your families. In Herefordshire the maternity services team has been working hard to plan how our services will continue to provide safe care during the COVID-19 outbreak.  Click here for more information on our maternity department page. For the latest information on visiting restrictions and birthing partners, click here.

Referrals are accepted from GPs  via eRS, Service name: Herefordshire Chronic Pain Self-Management Service – Gloucestershire Hospitals Trust RTE Other healthcare professionals by letter emailed to ghn-tr.PainMgtAdmin@nhs.net    Please include information about: any diagnosis, duration and location of pain, past or ongoing investigations and treatments, past medical history and drug history, any mental health problems, relevant beliefs or expectations and any other information which might be useful. Any communication issues such as need for an interpreter.  

The Ockenden Report was published in December 2020 and contained 7 immediate and Essential Actions for all Maternity Trusts. Information about the Ockenden Report is available on the NHS website. Take a look at some of the ways, outlined below, that we are implementing these actions at Wye Valley NHS Trust. Wye Valley NHS Trust is proud of the safe and kind service we provide to women and their families, but it’s important to always strive for improvement. Every member of staff has a part to play. Please contact our Matron for Quality and Safety if you have any ideas or…

If you decide to decline induction of labour?

Some of the drugs used to treat inflammatory arthritis can harm an unborn baby. We recommend that you speak with us if you are planning to become pregnant or father a child.   Your treatment may need to be changed before you stop using contraception.   If you have an unplanned pregnancy and are stopping or have recently stopped taking regular medication for your arthritis, please contact us as soon as possible.   Useful links: VERSUS ARTHRITIS – Pregnancy and Arthritis https://www.versusarthritis.org/media/22936/pregnancy-and-arthritis-information-booklet.pdf VERSUS ARTHRITIS – New pregnancy guidelines launched by the British Society for Rheumatology https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/healthcare-professionals/professional-network-and-clinical-updates/network-news/december-2022-network-news/new-pregnancy-guidelines-by-the-british-society-for-rheumatology/ BSR – 2 updated guidelines for prescribing rheumatology drugs during pregnancy and…

We provide regular updates on our finanicial position at our monthly Trust Board meetings.  A review of our financial performance during the last financial year is available in the Trust's Annual Report and Financial Accounts.  Access our Annual Report and Financial Accounts. Access Trust Board papers. Transparency View details of supplier payments for individual invoices exceeding £25,000 National guidance relating to these disclosures Further Information To access full annual accounts please contact us.

We aim to have a period of quiet time each day between 1pm and 2pm, during this time the rooms will be darkened and procedures avoided wherever possible.   This provides time for your baby to rest and for you to enjoy undisturbed time with your baby.   This is a good time for your to have skin to skin contact with your baby if you wish to.  We also have a neonatal library with a selection of books, giving you an opportunity to read quietly with your baby.    

Following the birth of your baby the midwife will conduct an initial top to toe examination of your baby to assess for wellbeing and to identify anything unusual. The check will be performed next to you to provide information and reassurance.  There will also be additional examinations of your baby during your stay. You can find out more about these examinations on our postnatal care website page.

8 to 10 weeks during pregnancy Blood test Haemoglobin anaemia is caused by too little haemoglobin (Hb) in the blood. The Hb is tested as part of the full blood count.  HB carries oxygen and nutrients around the body and to the baby.  Anaemia can make you feel very tired and if you are found to be anaemic you will be offered iron supplements and diet advice.  Blood Group & Antibodies - it is important to find out if you are Rhesus Positive or Negative.  If you are Rhesus Negative you will require extra blood tests and be advised to have…