MUMS to be will be invited to bring a partner with them for all pregnancy ultrasound scan appointments from today (Monday).
During the coronavirus pandemic, only mothers-to-be have been allowed in for their scans while the other expectant parent or chosen birthing partner had to remain outside.
Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust chiefs have revealed the ban will now be lifted at all ultrasound scan appointments either at the Worcestershire Royal or in a community setting.
Those accompanying an expectant mum will be required to wear masks provided on entry to the hospital and health chiefs have asked children do not attend appointments. Social distancing must be maintained during waiting times.
In addition to allowing partners into ultrasound scans, one birth partner can be present when in a mum is in labour and had been admitted to the delivery suite.
One birth partner will be invited to attend triage with a mum for assessment in labour and remain with her for support during labour, birth and for the first few hours following birth.
One birth partner may attend the antenatal ward to offer support during the induction of labour process from 10am to 6pm. A partner will be allowed onto the antenatal ward, for women who are not in labour, between 4pm and 6pm.
A birth partner may attend the postnatal ward either between 10am and midday or from 4pm to 6pm. The ward staff will guide them to the most appropriate visiting time.
Birth partners will be asked to sanitise their hands, wear a face mask and will have their temperatures taken by staff on arrival at the ward.
