Visiting restrictions to remain in place at CUMH, but situation is under constant review

Strict visiting restrictions introduced at Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH) at the beginning of the Covid-19 outbreak are to remain in place for the time being, however, the hospital says the situation is under constant review.

Currently, women who are admitted for induction of labour or in labour can have one nominated companion who can join the patient when she is in labour or called for caesarean section.

Visits to the neonatal intensive care unit are restricted to a mother and father only, and one at a time.

No visitors are allowed to visit other inpatients.

Last week the Rotunda maternity hospital in Dublin announced that it would be starting to allow one-nominated person per patient to return to visiting inpatient wards between 5pm and 7pm daily.

The National Maternity Hospital at Holles Street is allowing a partner/nominated person to visit a mother and a new baby for a limited time of up to two consecutive hours, each day.

However, the Ireland South Women and Infants Directorate which encompasses CUMH and the maternity units of University Hospital Kerry, University Hospital Waterford and South Tipperary General Hospital has said that its restrictions will remain in place for now.

“While we understand how challenging our visiting restrictions are, they remain in place at this current time. With Covid-19 still very much in our community, we need to minimise footfall to limit the risk of it spreading and continue to aim to protect mothers, babies and staff,” it said in a post on social media.

"Our staff appreciate how difficult this can be for expectant mothers, and our doctors and midwives will be there to support you at all times. We are constantly reviewing the situation and will inform you when our current restrictions change," it added.