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Vulnerable pregnant women 'miss out on antenatal care' Nick Triggle

From BBC News
November 1, 2010

Many of the most vulnerable pregnant women are missing out on vital care in England and Wales, experts say.

NHS watchdog NICE said teenage mothers, domestic abuse victims, drug users and non-English speakers were the least likely to use antenatal services despite being the most in need.

The body said the health service needed to become more flexible and welcoming.

But there has been criticism over its suggestion for schools and colleges to start hosting antenatal classes.

Dr Gillian Leng from NICE: 'The problem at the moment is lack of access'

NICE, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence which acts as the official advisory body to the health service, said antenatal classes played an essential role in improving the health of mothers and babies.

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