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The Maternity Crisis: Why We Need to Invest in Safer Births

A recent report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has revealed a concerning reality—two out of three maternity units in the UK are so understaffed that they are deemed unsafe. This statistic has worsened from 55% in Autumn 2022, highlighting a system in crisis.

The Impact on Mothers and Babies

The consequences of understaffed maternity units are devastating. The report found that one in four women experiences trauma during childbirth, affecting their mental health, physical recovery, infant feeding, and bonding with their baby. The ripple effect of these traumatic experiences can last a lifetime, impacting not only mothers but entire families.

Beyond the personal toll, the financial burden is staggering. In 2023, the estimated “cost of harm” for NHS maternity-related lawsuits reached approximately £6.6 billion—more than double the entire maternity services budget of just £3 billion. This stark contrast signals a broken system, one that reacts to crises rather than preventing them.

Prevention Over Compensation

We all know that prevention is better than cure, so why is funding not being allocated to proactive maternity care? Investing in safe and well-staffed maternity units could significantly reduce birth trauma and complications, ultimately lowering the financial burden of lawsuits and, more importantly, improving outcomes for mothers and babies.

This is not a criticism of the incredible doctors and midwives working tirelessly under difficult conditions. Many are performing lifesaving work despite being stretched thin. Personally, I am deeply grateful to the midwife who quickly recognized my internal hemorrhaging after childbirth and escalated my care without delay. Their dedication is undeniable—but they need more support.

Supporting Mothers Through Birth Trauma

Until significant changes are made in maternity care, mothers need guidance and support to navigate the challenges of childbirth and early motherhood. The journey into motherhood should be one of empowerment, not survival. If you are feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or struggling to recover from a difficult birth experience, you are not alone.

I am here to help. If you feel like you are barely keeping your head above water in motherhood, I invite you to book a free discovery call with me. Together, we can find ways to support and empower you in your journey as a mother.