RCM responds to BirthRights report on maternal request for caesarean section
By RCM on 20 August 2018 RCM Midwives Birthrights Report Physiological Birth
Birthrights has today (Tuesday 20th August) published the results of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request on maternal request for caesarean section.
Responding Gill Walton, Chief Executive and General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), said: “We support NICE recommendations on this issue and these are the recommendations and guidelines that midwives and doctors work with.
“Midwives should listen to women who want a caesarean section and discuss the risks and benefits of caesarean section and physiological birth in a way that is understandable and accessible to them.
“Women must be given the information to explore their views and feelings about caesarean birth, to enable them to come to an informed decision about their preferred type of birth. This information should reflect the individual woman’s current and previous medical, obstetric and psychological history.
“Midwives have an important role in supporting women who request caesarean section and respecting their reasons.”
To contact the RCM Media Office call 020 7312 3456, or email media@rcm.org.uk.
The RCM is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team. We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences and online resources. For more information visit the RCM website at https://www.rcm.org.uk/.