I would like to request a policy review to allow partners to attend prenatal appointments, including ultrasounds etc.
I am now, at the time of writing this, 33 weeks and my partner has not met my midwife, or had the opportunity to attend Kind Edwards with me for any appointments. Some appointments in particular I would have really appreciated my partners support, however no option was available for them to attend.
I have experienced the opposite for my first pregnancy when my partner had the opportunity to attend all appointments in my last pregnancy and enjoyed being involved and building a relationship with my midwife at the time. They also felt familiar with the hospital, rather than attending for the first time in labour. This helped them feel more confident and prepared, and ultimately allowed them to support me more in my labour.
I believe the current policy is detrimental to women's health, and unnecessary given the change of health policy with COVID and the easing of restrictions across the State.
I request a review of the current policy to allow partners to attend prenatal appointments which I feel will ensure a more inclusive and supportive environment to women who are preparing for birth at all hospitals across WA.
Appointments