Midwifery continuity of carer in an area of high socio-economic disadvantage in London: A retrospective analysis of Albany Midwifery Practice outcomes using routine data 1997–2009 (February 2017)

Summary

This study, published in Midwifery, concludes:

"An analysis of retrospective Albany Midwifery Practice statistics over 12.5 years has shown positive outcomes for women and babies in socially disadvantaged and BAME groups, including those with complex pregnancies and perceived risk factors. This study adds weight to a growing body of evidence linking relational midwifery continuity of carer with improved outcomes and policies identifying that all pregnant women should receive midwifery continuity of carer throughout the continuum of pregnancy, birth and new motherhood."

Content

Highlights

• The Albany Midwifery Practice was established within King's College Hospital NHS Trust in South East London and provided care to 2568 women from 1997 until 2009.
• The caseload included high proportions (57%) of women from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities from an area of high social disadvantage.
• Midwifery continuity of carer was high with almost all women (95.5%) being attended in labour by their primary or secondary midwife.
• Spontaneous birth rates were high (79.8%) with a low caesarean section rate (16%). Overall, 43.5% of women gave birth at home.
• Neonatal outcomes were positive with 95% of babies having Apgar scores of >8 at 5 minutes. There were 15 perinatal deaths and no intrapartum intrauterine deaths.