Áine Kenny: Mums describe 'lonely and isolating' experiences under Covid maternity restrictions

The visiting restrictions in Ireland's maternity hospitals are making people's pregnancy journeys and births more difficult, according to expectant mothers, writes Áine Kenny

Linda Kelly, Glanmire, Cork who had a baby girl Amy-Kate seven weeks ago in CUMH and her partner couldn't attend any scans, he was only there for two hours during and after the birth. Picture: Dan Linehan

Due to maternity hospital visiting restrictions, women have been forced to spend hours alone in labour, with partners only allowed in during the birth.

Couples then only get an hour or two with their baby, with either limited visits or no visits at all after this, depending on the hospital.