I don't feel I've had the right care

Speak up immediately and ask to be reviewed again

You are always allowed to say:

“I still feel something is wrong. I would like to be assessed again, please.”

"I would like a second opinion please"

“Please record in my notes that I still feel concerned about my baby’s movements.”

Request a second opinion

Every patient has the right to a second clinical opinion.
You can say:

“I would like a second opinion, please.”

This is especially appropriate with:

  • Reduced movements

  • Pain or bleeding

  • Concerns being repeatedly dismissed

  • Conflicting advice

You can reference the official standards which are linked on this page, e.g.:

Example:

“My understanding is that after 28 weeks, reduced movements should include CTG monitoring. Could we check that’s being followed?”

This shows you are informed, not confrontational.

Ask for your concerns to be documented

You can say:

“Please record in my notes that I still feel concerned about my baby’s movements.”

This ensures accountability and keeps accurate records if it needs to go further.

Bring someone with you

A partner, friend, or family member can:

  • Advocate for you

  • Remind you what to say

  • Notice details you may miss

  • Help ensure concerns aren’t dismissed

Use the hospital’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

If you still feel unheard, PALS can:

  • Step in immediately

  • Contact the department

  • Resolve issues during your visit

  • Arrange reviews or investigations

  • Support with communication

You can ask staff for the PALS phone number or find it on the hospital website.

PALS can intervene that same day  not just after the fact.

Ask for a complaint to be made (while still receiving care)

If the situation is serious or repeatedly dismissed, you can state:

“I would like to make a formal complaint about the care I am receiving today.”

This does not affect your right to treatment.
Staff must continue to care for you while the complaint is logged.

Most importantly of all

In UK maternity care, you can come back as many times as needed.

No one should be told:

  • “Don’t come back unless it’s worse”

  • “It’s probably nothing”

  • “You’ve already been here once this week”

These are not acceptable.

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