Expectant mothers whose pregnancies are defined as being “higher risk” are to have their antenatal care moved from Portiuncula University Hospital to other locations. That’s according to today’s Irish Times.
“Earlier this year, the HSE announced 10 reviews were taking place into the care given to women and babies at the Ballinasloe hospital.
The investigations were initiated after six babies delivered in 2024 and one in 2025 suffered from a reduction in the supply of blood or oxygen to the child’s brain before, during or after birth.
Six of these babies were referred for neonatal therapeutic hypothermia known as neonatal cooling.
In addition, two stillbirths occurred at the hospital in 2023 and the circumstances were also being reviewed externally.
In light of the concerns highlighted in the review, it is understood pregnant woman who are deemed to be “higher risk” will have their care moved elsewhere.
The definition of a high-risk pregnancy is not clear cut, but often includes mothers who are older, have gestational diabetes, those with a high BMI and women who had caesarians in previous pregnancies.
However, this will be subject to a decision by treating clinicians.
It is understood a summary of the reviews carried out at the hospital this year will be published imminently”.
