'Concerns over cases' force suspension of Lagan Valley midwife-led maternity unit births
Births have been "temporarily paused" at Lagan Valley Hospital after concerns were raised about a number of cases, the South Eastern Trust has confirmed.
In a statement the trust confirmed expectant mothers would be cared for at the Ulster Hospital as an alternative. All current ante-natal and post-natal services will continue at the site, the trust confirmed.
Have you been affected? Contact our news teams at news@u.tv
"The South Eastern Trust is taking this precautionary action because of concerns that have been raised about a very small number of cases who have birthed in the unit," a statement said.
"These cases are under active review and we are engaging with the families involved.
"We understand this decision may be disappointing for both staff in the unit and expectant mothers, however the trust has taken this temporary action in the interest of patient safety, pending the outcome of these reviews.
"All expectant mothers scheduled to give birth in the Midwifery Led Unit in the Lagan Valley Hospital and all staff impacted by this temporary action are being contacted by the trust.
"On average, eight women give birth in this unit each month.
"The Trust is unable to comment at the moment while the reviews are underway. It will however provide further updates when the reviews are complete."
The unit was first opened in February 2011 with midwifes replacing the previously consultant-led service.
It was anticipated at the time it would accommodate around 1,200 women over a year.