CHANGES to maternity inpatient visiting arrangements have been announced for North Wales today (Thursday, August 25).

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) has announced that arrangements are back in place.

These changes include maternity visiting, birth, attending ultrasound scans during pregnancy and maternity appointments at hospitals and community sites.

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During the Covid-19 pandemic, restrictions were brought in order to keep patients safe.

This often meant that women giving birth had to do so alone without their partners.

But, today, the following changes have been made as the world begins to return to its 'normal' state post-pandemic:

  • Up to two birth partners can now be present during active labour
  • A single birth partner or other nominated person can visit the antenatal/ postnatal wards between 9am to 8pm daily, no booking is required
  • General visiting is from 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm for up to two visitors at any one time, no booking is required.

A statement from BCUHB regarding the changes, added: "Visitors are also no longer required to provide evidence of a Lateral Flow Test and there is no longer the requirement for individual screening or triaging at entry to the maternity ward.

"We ask that all visitors remain vigilant for symptoms in the interests of protecting our patients, babies, staff and visitors.

"The situation in any health care setting can change rapidly. Restrictions may be re-introduced at short notice, for the safety of our babies, patients, visitors and staff."