New principles published today by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) for supporting women’s choices in maternity care are a step forward in bringing much-needed clarity, consistency and confidence to practice, according to the Royal College of Midwives (RCM).  

The new principles, which involved input from the RCM, have been designed to help midwives and employers support personalised care, including when care is declined or is requested outside of clinical guidance. 

Midwives support women to make informed choices about their care, and advocate for women once those choices have been made. However, the RCM says that to provide safe and effective personalised care, midwives must also have the support and the safeguards to do so. 

Fiona Gibb, Director of Midwifery at RCM, said:  

“Women have the right to make their own informed choices about their pregnancy, labour and birth. These choices may include a variety of care options, or the decision to decline care altogether. While declining care is not something we would recommend, we recognise that some women may choose this path for different reasons and it is important that their decisions are respected. 

“Midwives play a vital role in supporting women’s decision-making, ensuring that care remains safe and personalised. At the same time, maternity services must be underpinned by strong infrastructure, clear guidance and supportive systems to enable midwives to provide that care without compromising their own personal and professional safety. 

“This guidance sets out important principles to support women in their choices while also recognising the role of the midwife and responsibilities of both their employer and their regulator, the NMC. Personalised maternity care works best when women’s autonomy and professionals’ wellbeing are equally respected and protected.” 

ENDS 

To contact the RCM Media Office email media@rcm.org.uk or call 020 7312 3456 

Notes to Editors  

• The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team.  We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance, and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences, and online resources. For more information visit the RCM | A professional organisation and trade union dedicated to serving the whole midwifery team