One in four women have had a negative birth experience on the NHS in England, and care is getting worse rather than better. This stark finding comes despite increased funding and more midwives being recruited into the system.
Two landmark reports, both due out this month, are being billed as a watershed moment for maternity services in England. The reports are expected to call for sweeping reforms to address the systemic failures that have led to preventable harm and trauma.
Women who shared their experiences described deeply traumatic births. One woman recalled her husband being left alone in a room with her blood for over an hour. Another described crying constantly for weeks without understanding what was wrong with her.
A special Sky News programme broadcast live from University Hospital Coventry highlighted both the challenges and the pockets of excellence within the system. The hospital has been working to improve continuity of care for mothers throughout their pregnancy and birth.
Less than one percent of mothers currently receive continuity of midwife throughout their care, despite this being recognised as the gold standard that produces the best outcomes. The hospital is driving a major initiative to change this through a new community-based model.
Under the new approach, community midwifery teams have relocated to run their own clinics, allowing women to see the same midwives throughout their care. This means they do not have to repeat their stories and can develop a relationship of trust with their care providers.
Maternity experts say the crisis reflects a broader problem within the NHS where systemic pressures, staff shortages and inadequate facilities combine to create an environment where even well-intentioned professionals cannot consistently deliver the standard of care that women deserve.