A system where “poor care is all too frequently tolerated as normal” and “shockingly poor quality” in maternity services led to compassionate care, according to the findings of the parliamentary inquiry.
Under the direction of Labour MP Rosie Duffield and Conservative MP Theo Clarke, the Birth Trauma Inquiry reviewed the testimonies of more than 1,300 women and suggested a national plan to improve maternity care.
It was discovered that one “almost-universal theme” was subpar postpartum care.
“Women shared stories of being left in blood-stained sheets or of ringing the bell for help but no one coming,” according to the report.
One of its twelve recommendations is that the government appoint a commissioner for maternity leave, who would answer directly to the prime minister.
