RCM comments on ONS conception statistics

By RCM on 23 March 2017 Older Mothers Midwife Shortage Teenage Pregnancy Birth rate

Today the Office for National Statistics has published figures showing that conception rates in England and Wales, for women aged under 18, declined by 8% in 2015. Conception rates for women aged 30 and over have increased by 34%. Commenting on the statistics, Cathy Warwick, Chief Executive of the Royal College of Midwives, said: “These are welcome falls in the conception rates among teenagers, and this shows that strategies to reduce teenage pregnancies are having some effect.

“The rise to births in older mothers is something that the Government must take heed of. Older mothers particularly those into their thirties and forties can have more complications in pregnancy, needing more support and advice form midwives and other professionals in our maternity services. Pregnancies are also becoming more complex with issues such as obesity and rising levels of diabetes in pregnant women. Again these women may have more complicated pregnancies and often need additional support.

“The Government must take steps to make sure these women receive the care they need. England is 3500 midwives short of the numbers needed and I have concerns that many women are not getting the best possible care. This means investing in midwives and investing in our maternity services.”

To contact the RCM Press Office call 020 7312 3456 or email pressofficer@rcm.org.uk.

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The RCM is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team. We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences and online resources. For more information visit the RCM website at https://www.rcm.org.uk/.