Louise Thompson, known for her role in *Made in Chelsea*, is advocating for significant reform in the maternal care system. Aiming to enhance safety and professionalism in maternity services, she has called on the government to appoint a maternity commissioner.
Louise Thompson’s Petition for Maternity Care Reform
Speaking on *Good Morning Britain*, Thompson highlighted her ongoing health struggles, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), stemming from complications during the birth of her son, Leo, in November 2021. In collaboration with former Conservative MP Theo Clarke, she launched a petition that has garnered over 100,000 signatures, leading to its potential consideration in Parliament.
Statistics on Maternal Health
- 5% of women experience PTSD after childbirth.
- Thompson reports that thousands of women seek her support on this urgent issue weekly.
- More than 700 policy recommendations remain unimplemented from previous inquiries into birth trauma.
Thompson has emphasized the necessity of a maternity commissioner whose role would involve ensuring the implementation of existing recommendations. During the discussion, Clarke noted the absence of a current, comprehensive strategy for doctors to follow regarding maternal care.
Challenges of Traumatic Births
Thompson shared the emotional impact of her traumatic birth experience. After requesting an elective cesarean, she faced medical pushback. Eventually, she underwent an emergency cesarean, losing over five liters of blood and requiring readmission to the hospital post-discharge.
The effects of her experience extended to her family, with Thompson stating that she struggled to bond with her son during the first 18 months of his life, leading her partner to take on a primary caregiving role.
National Investigation into Maternity Care
The petition aligns with ongoing national investigations into maternity and neonatal care. Baroness Valerie Amos is collecting experiences from families to identify shortcomings in the current system. An interim review unveiled concerning levels of care that have led to tragic outcomes for families and their children.
Amos described her shock at the extent of inadequate maternity care reported across England. The public is encouraged to contribute their testimonies until March 17, to inform future improvements.
Support Resources for Affected Families
Various organizations provide assistance for those affected by traumatic birth experiences:
- Birth Trauma Association: A charity focused on supporting women who have faced traumatic births.
- Tommy’s: Offers advice throughout the pregnancy journey, specifically for PTSD related to childbirth.
- National Childbirth Trust: Provides resources to help identify signs of traumatic birth and PTSD.
Thompson remains committed to advocating for the necessary changes in maternal care, urging that no more women should endure similar traumas. Her efforts highlight the pressing need for structural reforms in the maternity care system to ensure the safety and well-being of mothers and their babies.
