Course Description

Introduction

Currently 6-7 per cent of the female prison population in England and Wales is pregnant (Ministry of Justice 2015). There is little known about the experiences of pregnant women in prison. Pregnant women in prison have a right to equivalence of health care, but the needs of incarcerated women are unique. Having a greater understanding of these needs enables midwives to provide a high standard of care to women who may have a multitude of complex needs.

Learning aims and objectives

This resource aims to provide student and qualified midwives with an understanding of the often complex needs of the pregnant woman in prison. It will enable you to:

• Gain knowledge of the reality of being a pregnant woman in prison
• Understand pregnant women in prison’s unique needs
• Understand the special circumstances and restrictions of giving birth while in custody
• Understand what you can do as a midwife to ensure equity of care for women in this situation

Keywords and linking topics

Prison, complex needs, rights and entitlements, becoming a mother, mother and baby unit, MBU