Maternity Services in Hampshire

Healthwatch Hampshire analysed their feedback data about maternity services, obstetrics and gynaecology for the period April 2013 to August 2014.

Overall, the findings show that most experiences were positive, particularly highlighting the quality of midwives, staff attitudes, and aspects of care, although some important concerns and negative experiences were also reported. 

The report found that Ashurst Hospital received the most consistently positive feedback, especially for its supportive and attentive midwives, good facilities, and excellent breastfeeding support. Many women described feeling well cared for and supported, particularly during the postnatal period. However, the high number of positive responses may partly reflect targeted engagement activity in that area rather than a fully representative comparison across Hampshire. 

Across other hospitals, including Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital, and Queen Alexandra Hospital, positive feedback commonly focused on midwives, dignity, and overall quality of care. Patients frequently described staff as caring, professional, and supportive during labour and delivery. 

Despite this, the report identified recurring areas of concern. These included issues with communication, inconsistent quality of treatment, staff attitudes in some cases, and problems with hospital processes such as discharge procedures. For example, some women reported being discharged too early, given incorrect notes, or left without adequate support after birth. 

There were also specific safety and care concerns raised by some individuals, such as delayed treatment, inadequate monitoring, or poor handling during procedures, although these cases were relatively few compared to positive reports. In a small number of serious cases, patients sought support from NHS advocacy services to pursue complaints about their care. 

Breastfeeding support was highlighted as an important theme. While many women—particularly at Ashurst Hospital—reported excellent support that enabled them to successfully breastfeed, others experienced inconsistent or negative support, including feeling pressured, judged, or insufficiently helped when experiencing difficulties. 

In conclusion, the report suggests that maternity services in Hampshire are generally well regarded, with strong performance in midwifery care and patient experience during labour. However, it also identifies areas for improvement, especially in communication, postnatal care, discharge processes, and ensuring consistent, empathetic support for breastfeeding and patient choice.