MUH welcomes positive results from National Maternity Experience Survey

Mayo University Hospital (MUH) has welcomed the findings of the National Maternity Experience Survey 2025, which report largely positive experiences among women who received maternity care at the hospital this year.

The survey, published by the National Care Experiences Programme, invited women who gave birth in February and March 2025 to share their experiences of antenatal, labour, birth and postnatal care. At MUH, 203 women were invited to participate, with 87 responses received, resulting in a response rate of 43%, slightly above the national average of 42%. 

Among the positive feedback received, one mother praised the service, saying, “I never felt thrown in the deep end, as there was always someone there to answer any questions I had. I was in the obstetrician-led clinic, and I felt my obstetrician always explained everything thoroughly and was very open with me and allowed me to make my own decisions.”

The survey also identified areas where improvements could be made. In particular, 12% of respondents (10 out of 84) reported that the benefits and risks of tests or procedures during labour and birth were not explained to them in a way they could easily understand.

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Commenting on the results of the Maternity Survey, Louise O’Malley, Mayo University Hospital Director of Midwifery, said, “We are very encouraged by the strong feedback shared by women in the National Maternity Experience Survey 2025. The positive experiences shared by women reflect the dedication and compassion of our midwives and wider maternity teams. 

“We are very focused on the areas highlighted for improvement, as these will be targeted for action in 2026. We will be working to ensure that every woman receives clear, consistent information and fully understands the care being provided throughout her maternity journey.”

Hospital Manager Catherine Donohoe said, 

“The results of this year’s survey is a welcome acknowledgement of the excellent care delivered at Mayo University Hospital. We are proud of our staff, whose professionalism and empathy are clearly recognised by the women who use our services.

“We remain committed to using the information provided in the survey to continually improve, ensuring that our maternity services remain safe and supportive to the needs of the women and their families. We have already shared the findings with our senior team, and we will have a plan to address the areas of opportunity agreed at our January team meeting.”