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We were also able to adapt the "psychoprophylactic" method
to the "Helen Herdman" method that is practised in this Hospital.
In fact the type of method taught did not seem to matter. What helped
the mothers most was being able to do something towards the birth
of their baby, learning how to help themselves when the time comes.
We were able to answer the many questions which worried them, in
the short time for discussion after each relaxation session. We
found that mothers really did enjoy this and we were able to reassure
them allay their fears by answering their queries not only on
pregnancy and labour but on baby care and feeding, and on the
services provided by our Child Health Centres. We found that most
of the mothers attended fairly regularly and a few practised at home
and were quite confident by the end of their 6th lesson.
We were very grateful for the co-operation and encouragement
given to us by Matron and the Ante-Natal Clinic Staff.
The evening parentcraft courses at 11 ford Maternity Hospital
have continued, and have proved to be very popular as shown by
the continued large attendances, especially on the evenings when
the film "To Janet a Son"? has been shown, when fathers also
attended in good numbers and they were very much welcomed.
Cervical Cytology
The education service set up some three years ago in the Clinic at
this office has continued. Breast self examination techniques are demonstrated
by the nursing staff to the ladies who attend, and the teaching
aids provided are considered to be very helpful.
Publicity and Mass Media
After a re-appraisal of the situation and by general demand, poster
distribution throughout the Borough continued at monthly intervals dealing
with subjects of topical importance.
Special campaigns have been mounted to cover the new colour coding
for electrical wiring, immunisation, influenza, food hygiene, smoking
and health. An example of a health project tied to action was the Dispose
of Your Drugs Safely" Campaign - the idea of clearing out medicine
cabinets and returning unwanted drugs to the chemists was something
that appeals to most of us when positive action can be taken and results
achieved.