Partners of pregnant women to remain excluded in some hospitals

Social Democrats TD Holly Cairns said great emphasis has been put on the economic and social impacts of the pandemic but the mental health of pregnant women and their partners has not been considered. Picture: Gareth Chaney

Partners of expectant mothers will continue to be excluded from scans and early labour in some regions as not all hospitals will be able to include them under new Government plans.

Pregnant women have been subjected to a "postcode lottery" of restrictions since Covid-19 hit, although the Government conceded “local circumstances” may see different policies around visitors continue in some hospitals.