The Singleton Midwife Unit opens at the William Harvey Hospital on July 6.

According to the hospital, the seven-bed unit, situated one floor below Folkestone ward, will be run by midwives and aims to aid normal birth by offering two birth pools and facilities to support an upright position during birth.

Gas, air and pethidine will be available for pain relief.
For epidurals patients will need to be transferred to the labour ward.

A spokesman for the hospital added: “After you have had your baby Singleton MLU will offer postnatal care up to a maximum of 24 hours after the birth as it is expected that most women will go home within six to 12 hours after the birth of their babies.

“The kitchen is available for staff, women and their families to make drinks and snacks.

“All rooms are ensuite and there is one room with additional facilities for disabled women.

“Partners are welcome and encouraged to stay with you if you would like.”