Birthing unit benefits

Rangiora Maternity Hospital recently celebrated the birth of the 100th baby born there in the 12 months to June this year.

The last time 100 babies were born in a year at Rangiora Maternity Hospital was two years ago and then 12 years before that.

The 100th baby, Bronco,was born to proud Mum Renee on June 30.

The birthing unit at Rangiora is one of three Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) primary birthing units available for Christchurch women. The other two are at Lincoln and Burwood hospitals.

CDHB director of midwifery Samantha Burke talks about the benefits to women and their babies of choosing to give birth at a CDHB birthing unit.

What are the advantages for women and their babies of giving birth at one of the birthing units?

Primary birthing units offer a comfortable, low-key setting for antenatal, birthing and postnatal care for women and their families in their communities. The birthing units offer a peaceful environment with homely facilities including great meals and lounge rooms. These provide a perfect setting for new parents to get to know their new babies and there is plenty of one-to- one care. At the country hospitals of Lincoln and Rangiora women and their visitors also enjoy beautiful gardens.

What happens if any concerns arise during labour and birth?

The units are all staffed by experienced midwives and provide high-quality care in partnership with the lead maternity carers who use them. Midwives are committed to normal birthing and the primary units promote an environment for this - which in turn has a positive impact on reducing intervention rates. If there are any concerns the staff have 24/7 support via telephone with Christchurch Women's Hospital and the ability to transfer promptly as required for further care.

What feedback do you get from women about being at one of the rural locations such as Rangiora and Lincoln?

They say they love the rural scenery and the delightful people. They get fantastic support and enjoy the calm and quiet environment that the primary units give. They also appreciate being closer to home and family and not having the same issues with parking as in the city.

What else would you like to comment on regarding the birthing units?

All the primary units are BFHI (baby friendly hospital initiative) accredited. The accreditation process is stringent and monitored by the New Zealand Breastfeeding Authority and demands that as an organisation we continuously provide a high level of care for our women and babies while adhering to the 10 steps to successful breastfeeding defined by the World Health Organisation/Unicef.

- Canterbury District Health Board

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