About The Midwifery Led Unit
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Depending on your medical and obstetric history you will attend either the Midwifery led unit or Delivery suite. Your midwife will have advised you during your antenatal visits, but if you are unsure please contact the hospital on 0151 708 9988. Or attend the Midwifery led unit in the first instance.
The Midwifery Led Unit is a delivery / post-natal ward for low risk women who do not require continuous monitoring throughout their labour and can be found on the first floor in the Jeffcoate wing.
The majority of care is provided by a dedicated midwife however if you require medical assistance a doctor will attend from the central delivery suite close by. Most forms of pain relief are available. If you request an epidural, this will be provided on the central delivery suite. Additionally alternative therapies such as aromatherapy, hydrotherapy and massage are available on request. A relaxation room is also available for you to use.
If you are in good health you will deliver on the MLU, unless:
- You have been booked for induction of labour
- Your pregnancy has not reached 37 weeks when you go into labour
- You have gone 10 days past your due date
- You are having twins
- You have had some problems in your pregnancy which mean you will require continuous monitoring in labour
On arrival you and your partner (or other person you have chosen to help you through your labour) will be shown to your room. Security and visiting. Here you can make yourself comfortable, change into hospital gown or nightdress of your own. Choose an old one that is loose and preferably cotton because you will feel hot during labour and won't want something tight. Your midwife will ask you to explain what has been happening so far and will examine you to determine your progress. This will be done by:
- Taking your pulse, temperature, blood pressure and a sample of urine
- Feel your abdomen to check your baby's position and listen to your baby's heart
- Examine you internally to check how much your cervix has opened
Your midwife will repeat these checks at intervals throughout labour to monitor your progress.
