Published on: 22 October 2019
The new midwifery-led birthing centre at South Tyneside District Hospital has welcomed its 40th arrival.
Sophia Ann Mullen came into the world at 8.27pm on October 14th, weighing 6lb 15oz.
Mum Louise Mullen, 34, of Cullercoats, who is also mother to Maddie, aged two, said her experience at the birthing centre was 'amazing'.
"The atmosphere was so calm and relaxing - my husband kept saying it was like a hotel," she added. "The midwives could not have been more supportive and I can't thank all the staff enough. I can thoroughly recommend the birthing centre."
Jacqui Ramshaw, midwife and manager of the centre, said: "We're delighted that Louise found the experience of giving birth here with us such a positive experience and we're very pleased to welcome Sophia as our 40th baby."
The opening of the midwifery-led birthing centre in August has meant more choice on where to give birth for local women across South Tyneside and Sunderland.
Women who have a low-risk pregnancy which is problem-free have the option of:
- Giving birth at home
- Giving birth at the midwifery-led birthing centre at South Tyneside District Hospital
- Giving birth under midwifery-led care at Sunderland Royal Hospital, which is within the consultant-led maternity unit
- Giving birth at another maternity unit of their choice in the region
Women who have a high risk pregnancy, for example, if they are expecting twins, if their baby is in the breech position, or if they have experienced complications in this or a previous pregnancy, are advised to give birth in the consultant-led unit at Sunderland Royal Hospital. The majority of all antenatal and postnatal care continues to be provided locally.
