Women urged to contact Cork University Maternity Hospital as provider ceases midwifery care services

Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH) is urging any woman who was booked under the care of Private Midwives Ireland (PMI), and is currently 37 weeks pregnant or more, to contact their local maternity hospital as soon as possible.

On Wednesday, August 15, Private Midwives Ireland, an independent provider of midwifery care across Ireland, ceased its services.

Private Midwives Ireland said last week: “Unfortunately, the current financial and political climate has made trading conditions exceedingly tough, and it has become increasingly costly to provide the service, whilst at the same time, fewer families can afford our service.”

Acknowledging the distress the closure could cause for women now having to reconsider birth plans at a late stage in pregnancy, the HSE is reassuring women that care and support are available.

Each woman will be assessed individually and provided with an appropriate care plan.

Women who are affected and have clinical concerns or are approaching their due date, 37 weeks or more, are encouraged to contact the CUMH on 021 4920 500.

Dr Mairead O’Riordan, clinical director at CUMH, said: “We want to reassure any woman affected by the sudden closure of Private Midwives Ireland that we are here to support them.

“We urge women approaching their due date to contact their local maternity hospital and ask to be put through to the Bed Manager.

“From there, a plan will be put in place to ensure they receive timely and appropriate care as they prepare for the arrival of their baby.

“Many women will have built strong relationships with their midwife through PMI.

“If they wish, that midwife can attend the birth as their support person.”