Pregnancy, Childbirth and the Mental Capacity Act

This course is designed to assist delegates to navigate the challenging landscape of mental capacity law in the field of obstetrics. Pregnant women may lack mental capacity about decisions relating to their obstetric care for various reasons such as mental disorders, learning disability or perhaps a phobia.

In this course, delegates will cover the basics of the Mental Capacity Act and how the law should be applied in relation to specific decisions such as caesarean sections and birth plans. Related areas will also be covered such as contraception and termination of pregnancies. There will be particular consideration of those detained under the Mental Health Act and guidance on when to apply to the Court of Protection.

The course will be essential for midwives and obstetricians. Others that are likely to be involved in the care of pregnant women such as GPs, practice nurses, counsellors, social workers and psychiatrists will also…