AIMS IrelandWhat you need to know about: Electronic Foetal Monitoring (CTG)
Electronic Foetal Monitoring Electronic foetal monitoring is a commonly used practice in Irish maternity units. Electronic foetal monitoring (EFM or CTG) measures your baby’s heartbeat in frequency and strength and measures your contractions. Electronic Foetal Monitoring can be… Read More
Episiotomy: Is it necessary?
What is an episiotomy? An episiotomy is the surgical procedure that enlarges the opening of the vagina through the cutting of the perineum, the skin and the muscles between the vulva and the anus. How did this procedure… Read More
Looking at the Evidence for Birthing Your Baby: Self-directed vs Coached pushing?
As you approach the end of your pregnancy, it is normal to think about and even worry about giving birth. It is normal to have some apprehension in these last few days, even if you have given birth before or… Read More
Epidural – Is it right for you?
Epidural Anaesthesia is an effective and popular form of pain relief for women during labour and childbirth. The epidural is an injection which is inserted into your spine in the lower back into an area called the ‘epidural… Read More
Induction of labour – Is it right for you?
What is induction? An induction of labour is when a doctor or midwife uses various methods to artificially initiate or accelerate labour. such as: a membrane stretch and sweep a pessary or gel artificial rupture of membranes (ARM)… Read More
“No Thank You” – A Guide to Informed Decision Making
Your experience of labour and birth should be exactly that – YOURS. Every birth is unique as each woman will approach childbirth in her own way. It is important that you have the information you need to… Read More
New HSE birth statistics show a continuing high level of interventions including C-sections, instrumental deliveries and episiotomies
First time mothers struggle to avoid an intervention in labour Figures show a lack of support nationally for mothers planning vaginal birthsafter Caesareans The HSE has released detailed figures of birth statistics from Ireland’s 19 public maternity units for… Read More
Detailed statistics on Ireland’s 19 public maternity units published for the first time
(Monday, 6 January 2014) The Association of Improvements in Maternity Services, Ireland (AIMS Ireland) has today welcomed the publication by the HSE of detailed statistics from Ireland’s 19 public maternity units. The 2011 data includes information on C-section rates… Read More
Informed Decision Making: “No Thank You” – A Guide to Informed Decison Making
Your experience of labour and birth should be exactly that – YOURS. Every birth is unique as each woman will approach childbirth in her own way. It is important that you have the information you need to decide… Read More