TWO years ago there was uncertainty among Leeton mothers as to whether or not they would be able to give birth in their home town.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Now, a special program set up to allow women with uncomplicated pregnancies to give birth at Leeton District Hospital is celebrating its second anniversary of operation.
Staff and families gathered last week to mark the occasion.
The midwifery-led model of care also assists mothers and families before and after birth, regardless of whether or not their child was born in Leeton.
MORE NEWS
Leeton District Hospital facility manager Amanda Culpan said the introduction of the model of care had transformed midwives' ability to care for women and families.
"The Leeton midwives provide holistic care to low risk women," she said.
"We develop a close professional relationship with all women and their families.
"We can support them throughout their pregnancy.
"There is less intervention during labour, maternal risks are identified earlier, and midwives build rapport with women."
The program has also developed a solid working relationship with the obstetricians and the maternity service at Griffith Base Hospital, where they can consult and refer any women when required.
Leeton midwife Leeanne Driscoll said the practice was rewarding for both staff and patients.
"Women are able to birth locally, close to their family and support networks," she said.
"We develop trust so that they know they can call us any time they have a questions, and come in and be checked if they have a concern."
Postnatal care can be in the hospital or the home environment with the midwife visiting with the family.
"If they want to go home early, we can provide support by making home visits," Ms Driscoll said.
Women can self-refer to the service or obtain a referral from their family GP.
****
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox every Friday at 6am from The Irrigator. To make sure you're up to date with all news in Leeton sign up here.