Last updated 27 March 2023
The safety and well-being of our babies, mothers, families, doctors and staff is always our highest priority.
Maternity Patients
Our preference is for all patients to be vaccinated, however we will continue to provide a service to all patients regardless of their vaccination status
Partner / support person
Our preference is for the partner / support person to be vaccinated, however all partners / support person will be allowed access to visit
Visitors
- Allowed up to two (2) visitors at a time1
- No restriction on the number of visitors permitted per patient, per day
- Children from the same household / family are permitted to visit in the maternity unit and ward areas
- Visiting hours are between 2.00pm until 7.00pm
- No restriction to partner / support person
1 Whilst maintaining appropriate physical distancing
We expect that these guidelines will be modified as we progress, dependent on the status of the pandemic in our state.
We appreciate that this is a challenging time and thank you for your support in helping to keep our babies and their families as safe as possible.
[Last updated 27 March 2023]
Can I have visitors during my stay?
Yes, maternity patients are allowed up to two (2) visitors at a time1with no restriction on the number of visitors permitted per patient, per day.
Children from the same household / family are permitted to visit in the maternity unit and ward areas.
Visiting hours are between 2.00pm until 7.00pm.
There is no restriction in place for the partner / support person who is welcome to come and go from the hospital or stay for the duration of the admission.
Can my other children visit me at the hospital?
Children from the same household / family are permitted to visit in the maternity unit and ward areas. Visiting hours are between 2.00pm until 7.00pm
Are antenatal classes still running?
Yes, our antenatal classes continue.
Please refer to our Education and Classes page on our maternity website for the details.
Do I need to call ahead before coming to the Maternity Unit?
If you think you may be in labour, please call Ashford Hospital on 08 8375 5237 at any time to get guidance from one of our experienced Midwives.
This phone call is important as it helps us prepare for your arrival.
For any COVID-19 related questions and other enquiries related to your admission please contact our Maternity Services Manager Monday – Friday between 8.00am and 4.00pm on 08 8375 5688.
Can I have my partner AND another support person with me during childbirth?
Only one (1) partner / support person is able to be present during childbirth (including labour ward and operating theatre).
Special circumstances to have a second support person present during labour and delivery may be considered. Please speak to your Obstetrician.
Can I still visit my baby in the Nursery?
Yes, you and your partner / support person can visit your baby in the Nursery.
Additional visitors and siblings are not permitted to visit the Nursery.
Will a lactation consultant still be available?
Yes, the lactation consultant is available to assist with breastfeeding support during your stay on the ward.
What happens if there is a case of COVID-19 within the hospital during my stay?
If a patient exhibits COVID-19 symptoms during their stay, and becomes a suspect case, we are very well-prepared to manage them and have planned for this eventuality.
What happens if I develop COVID-19 symptoms prior to admission?
Where a maternity patient or partner / support person develops symptoms of COVID-19 prior to admission you must have a PCR test, isolate and await result. Please advise your Obstetrician if you receive a positive COVID-19 PCR or RAT result.