A MUM is worried about her pregnant daughter who has been waiting several days to have her waters broken at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.
The mum, who wants to remain anonymous, says her 26-year-old daughter was taken to hospital on Friday to be induced and has been waiting since then to go to the delivery suite.
She was told her first grandchild is at risk as he is “not kicking as much” and there are “less movements.”
The hospital trust has said there is a shortage of midwives due to coronavirus and it was ensuring mothers and babies had the best care.
The 49-year-old woman said: “I’m just really worried about her and the baby. Why say the baby needs to be born and then just leave her for days and days? What if something goes wrong now because she’s been left?
“My daughter isn’t the only one in this situation, she’s been told today there are 14 women waiting for their waters to be broken but not enough staff to look after them.”
The upset mum added: “The midwives are clearly doing their best but they’re exhausted.
“The hospital has just come out of special measures but how when in maternity it’s so bad?
“This needs to be sorted before a mum or baby dies. My daughter is scared for her baby.”
She said her daughter, who is 39 weeks pregnant, from Redditch, is on the postnatal ward as the antenatal ward is full.
Justine Jeffery, divisional director of midwifery and gynaecology nursing, said: “On behalf of the trust I would like to apologise to any expectant mother and their family for any delays in their care, or if any aspect of their care fell below the high standards we set for ourselves.
“We are currently experiencing some Covid-19 related absence in our midwifery team. However, putting patients first remains our priority and our clinical teams regularly risk assess each mother to ensure the safety of them and their baby.
“We are also working in partnership with our neighbouring trusts where necessary to ensure every mum and baby gets the best possible care. Additionally, urgent Covid-19 tests are in place for our own staff to enable their quick return to work where possible.
“We would always encourage patients and relatives to contact us directly so that we can investigate any concerns.”
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