Maternity services in Somerset have changed the way they offer services to keep mums and babies safe during the coronavirus pandemic.

Somerset maternity teams have been looking at the best way to keep delivering care that prioritises the health and wellbeing of women and babies, taking into consideration the extra pressures from potential staff absences and demands on NHS services due to COVID-19.

In Somerset, all care plans are reviewed by members of the maternity team and take into consideration a mother’s personal, medical and obstetric situation. If possible, appointments may go ahead via phone call.

Sallyann King, head of midwifery at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, said: “In these exceptional times, we understand that women and their families may be feeling increased anxiety and worry so we want to reassure you that we are here for you.

“Following national guidance, we have temporarily changed the way we provide antenatal and postnatal care.

"We’ve made these changes to try to minimize the face-to-face contact you have with your midwife while continuing to care for you and your baby in a safe way.

“Please be reassured that when you visit us at our maternity units, we are taking your safety very seriously.

"All of our maternity colleagues will be wearing PPE to protect you, but behind the masks, we are here to take care of you and support you during your pregnancy and birth.”

Although contact with the maternity team may not always be face to face during the coronavirus pandemic, they are available on the phone.

Women who are concerned about their baby should contact their maternity unit immediately, especially if the baby’s movements have slowed or changed.

Antenatal classes have moved online, with both Musgrove Park Maternity and Yeovil District Hospital Maternity offering a variety of classes. Full details can be found on their Facebook pages.

If you have urgent concerns about you or your baby’s health, Musgrove Park Hospital's maternity unit has midwives available on the maternity triage line: 01823 343985. This line is available for 24 hours a day, seven days a week.