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Should we change our approach to labour wait times?

Former Master of the National Maternity Hospital, Professor Peter Boylan, told Newstalk Breakfast...

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12.00 6 Jul 2026


Should we change our approach to labour wait times?


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12.00 6 Jul 2026


Former Master of the National Maternity Hospital, Professor Peter Boylan, told Newstalk Breakfast that Ireland's new labour guidelines may be putting women at risk.

Under the updated HSE guidance, women in the latent phase of labour may not be admitted to a labour ward until they are around 4cm dilated, with some advised to continue labouring at home. Critics argue that because many women cannot accurately judge cervical dilation themselves, this approach could delay access to hospital care and increase the risk of complications.

So, do you think we need to change our approach to labour for safer outcomes?

Joining Andrea to discuss is Birth and Postpartum Doula, Roberta Hynes and listeners.


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