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MIDWIFERY SERVICE
Section 23
The number of home confinements shows a slight increase over
1952, but the expected increase in bookings due to the larger financial
benefits now available has not yet developed. As from 26th October,
1953, maternity cash benefits were increased and changes were made
in the conditions under which they are paid, with the object of
encouraging mothers to have their babies at home instead of in
hospital.
One midwife retired during the year and this reduced the number
employed in the Area to twelve. Seven midwives are teachers of district
midwifery approved by the Central Midwives Board. During the year
nineteen pupil midwives were given the three months training required
before taking their examinations.
Relief of pain in childbirth has received much attention. All the
midwives are conscious of their responsibility in this matter, and with
the new drugs and gas and air analgesia the results have been good.
With more knowledge of the mind of the expectant mother greater
care is taken to help her to get the right psychological approach to
her confinement. With this end in view the mothercraft classes teach
simple breathing exercises, relaxation, and the use of the gas and air
apparatus, all of which contribute to the relief of pain.
Co-operation with other branches of the health service is good,
especially with the general practitioners and the ambulance service
There is a free interchange of information between the midwives and
health visitors.