The doctors’ union denied that gynaecologists were abusing the system and electively inducing births in the absence of a policy or guidelines.

The nurses union last week called on the Health Department to sort out the problem of too many induced births. It said the lack of policy or guidelines for elective induction of births meant some doctors were abusing the system, which led to mothers sometimes giving birth in treatment rooms, wards or even in corridors because the labour wards could not cope.

The Health Department pointed out that at this time of the year it was normal to see an increase in births, which had nothing to do with bed shortages or doctors’ practices.

The Medical Association of Malta said obstetricians caring for pregnant women refuted allegations made in their regard. They “reaffirmed their commitment to pursue the principles of modern day obstetrics”. Such a commitment led the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology to have an enviable record in terms of neonatal and maternal mortality and morbidity rates, it noted.

“It would be a great disservice to our expectant women if these principles are brushed aside and the patients exposed to risks that can and should be avoided,” the MAM said.