Partners permitted to attend ‘20 week’ anomaly scan

The HSE is to re-classify partners as an ‘essential companion’ of a pregnant woman for the foetal anomaly or anatomy scan, commencing from this week.

The development has been welcomed by Fianna Fáil TD for Cavan Monaghan Niamh Smyth.

“This issue has been raised with me by pregnant women all over Ireland," said Deputy Smyth. "I have been working with Minister Stephen Donnelly for some time on this so I am delighted to see action has been taken on this issue.

"Pregnancy is a significant life event for all women. The support of a partner through the process, particularly for key scans, such as the anatomy scan cannot be underestimated. This scan confirms many details of the foetus anatomy and can identify if there is an issue with the pregnancy. Women having to attend this scan alone has been a very tough experience for many."

Cruel

She noted that pregnant women have endured so much along during this pandemic.

"It has been one of cruel aspects of Covid-19 that pregnant women could not have a partner with them to attend scans or indeed much of their labour. I will continue to work with Minister Donnelly to address these issues, however, it is very welcome that partners are now allowed to attend the anatomy scan.

“The Clinical Directors of all 19 maternity units have been keeping the need for restrictions under review at all times, and working to balance health protection with compassion for people’s needs and preferences. This will continue to be the case as ultimately the safety of all patients is paramount “ concluded Smyth.