Maternity Communication - 19th March, 2020

In line with advice from Scottish Government and Health Protection Scotland if you are pregnant you should attend your antenatal appointment as normal. The latest guidance states there is limited evidence to suggest there are COVID-19 (coronavirus) related complications during pregnancy.

In order to protect and safeguard our patients and staff, when attending antenatal appointments, you should enter through the door at the side of the main entrance at the front of The Balfour. Accessing the Maternity Department is via the Lift at the side of the restaurant which has been designated for pregnant women (and partner) and patients who have a mobility issue ONLY.

At this time we are restricting visitors to birthing partners for the duration of the hospital stay and antenatal appointments ONLY. Children under the age of 12 are not permitted to visit The Balfour unless they are asked to attend or are visiting the Emergency Department.

Michelle Mackie – Head of Midwifery advises that "If you are pregnant and feel you may have symptoms of COVID-19 (coronavirus), please call the maternity department on 01856 888238 to speak to a member of the team”.

What is the latest advice from Scottish Government for pregnant women?

The Scottish Government has advised that people pregnant woman should where possible

• Avoid contact with someone who is displaying symptoms of COVID-19 (coronavirus). These symptoms include high temperature and/or new and continuous cough
• Avoid non-essential use of public transport, varying travel times to avoid rush hour, when possible;
• Work from home. Your employer will support you to do this
• Avoid large gatherings, and gatherings in smaller public spaces such as pubs, cinemas, restaurants, theatres, bars, clubs
• Avoid gatherings with friends and family. Keep in touch using remote technology such as phone, internet, and social media
• Use telephone or online services to contact your GP or other essential services 

We understand the situation may be causing some concerns, but we want to reassure you we are taking steps to protect both you, your baby, patients and staff from any unnecessary exposure to COVID-19.

For more information regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus) please visit the NHS Inform website, NHS Orkney’s website or call NHS 24 (111).