The pandemic is two years in and for long periods of that people were bound by strict rules – particularly in hospitals in terms of patients and visiting them. But two years in the rules for pregnant women, and those giving birth, are not the same in different health boards.
We've shared the story of Laura Santiago. A mum to Theo, she is currently pregnant again but has had three miscarriages during the pandemic. Despite having early scans – something only offered to women where a complication is suspected – her husband was not allowed to be with her at any of those scans. It meant she started the horrific journey of dealing with baby loss by herself and after her numerous NHS scans had to go out to the car park to break the news to her husband.
Only two Covid rules in Wales remain legal requirements – masks must be worn in healthcare settings and businesses have to develop business plans. We approached each of Wales' health boards and asked their rules from the first maternity appointments through to scans, checks, and birth. The rules are different for each.
