Water birth facilities open at key bayside hospital

Bayside women wanting to experience a water birth will no longer have to travel outside of their region thanks to revamped local facilities.

Mothers in the Redlands now have access to water birth facilities following upgrades to Redland Hospital. Picture: iStock/File

WOMEN living in Brisbane’s bayside will no longer will have to travel out of their city if they want to have a water birth.

The improved access for pregnant mums is thanks to the opening of three new birthing pools at Redland Hospital.

Full Digital Access: 50% off for the first 12 weeks (conditions apply)

The upgraded facility is part of $1.73 million in works at the hospital, which also included more beds in the emergency department which were put to use late last year.

The upgraded birthing suites at Redland Hospital include facilities for water births.

MP Kim Richards (Redlands) said it was an exciting time for local families who previously needed to travel out of the region — to places like the Gold Coast — to access water birthing facilities.

“The local community told us they wanted access to water birthing, and we are thrilled to now provide local mums with this option,” Ms Richards said.

“We want to give mums-to-be more choice and now they can choose water birthing at their local hospital, close to home and close to their loved ones.”

More Redlands news:

THE WIGGLES BOUND FOR THE REDLANDS

EVERY REDLAND COUNCIL CANDIDATE REVEALED

ANOTHER CRASH ON DEATH TRAP ROAD

Member for Capalaba Don Brown said the birthing unit expansion, which included a new birth suite and the refurbishment of two existing birth suites to accommodate the new birthing pools, as well as a refurbished maternity assessment unit, was an important step towards catering for a growing community.

“The Redlands Coast has a growing population, and the demand for healthcare services continues to increase,” Mr Brown said.

“This upgrade is part of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to providing more and better health services, no matter where you live.

“The unit also received a new birthing unit reception, refurbished waiting room and a new clinical teaching room.”

Local members Kim Richards (Redlands) and Don Brown (Capalaba) join Redland Hospital staff in the opening of upgraded birthing facilities.

Around 1800 babies are born at Redland Hospital every year, a number expected to grow thanks to both increased capacity and choice.

The ED and birthing expansion project has created jobs for 25 people, including three apprentices, during the construction phase.

FOLLOW REDLANDS COMMUNITY NEWS ON FACEBOOK