NHS

What is a consultant-led maternity unit?


This is where there are both doctors (obstetricians) and midwives available to support women and their babies. Obstetricians are doctors who specialise in pregnancies and births where there are complications. Obstetric units offer epidural pain relief, and have an operating theatre nearby in case a baby needs to be delivered by caesarean section. They also have special care baby units.

All births classed as high-risk, for example, multiple births, caesarean sections or women with complex health needs, give birth at the consultant-led maternity unit. However, expectant mothers can choose to have their baby at the consultant-led unit.