Gynecologist in Madrid
What (if any) changes have you seen in the last few years with regards to giving birth in Madrid (e.g. age of women giving birth, number of children women are having etc.)?
Lots of things have changed regarding childbirth in Madrid. First of all, caesarean indexes are currently being explored in order to keep below a 18% total rate; infact, a very serious gynecologyst group is imposing strick rules to follow during the delivery, related to indication or not for caesarean section in each woman. Thanks to this, some hospitals have dropped their caesarean section rate to 14% On top of that, humanization in delivery attention is a rule, proposing ways of treatment to the pregnant woman and discusing them with her. Longer times schedules are permited before starting the 3 stage of delivery in an active way. Episiotomy is no longer the rule, and epidural anesthesy is ON REQUIRY. To end with, the baby is not examined separately from his mother and imediate breast contact is advised.
What advice would you give to women from the International Community who are preparing to have a baby in Madrid?
All women should know their obstetrican and how he/she works, where will he deliver the baby and what is the neonatal postpartum care like, ....Talking with your obstetrician should clear most doubts.
Do you promote the idea of natural birth?
Yes, but always in the safe line. No risks for mum or child.
There has been concern about the number of Caesareans performed in Spain – do you think the concern is justified?
Spain is a developed country delivery with a Caesarean rate lower than the USA and others. Anyhow, concerns about the number of caesarean sections have been raised at the Spanish school of obstetricians. They have been developing some strict guides for good obstetrician care. These guidelines are actually being used in lots of hsopital centers in Spain.
Some mothers from the International Community have commented that the level of post-natal care is very limited in Madrid would you agree with that?
The Spanish law is quite clear about that: all women have top be checked two weeks after their delivery. Control of pelvic floor disorders, sfincter controls, breast feeding counsels, etc are routinely given in our office. In any case, mums can feel free to contact us if needed.
Do you think there is enough ante natal (non-medical) advice for expectant mothers in Madrid?
Yes, for sure. And on top of that, we are always giving info, oral or written. Midwives do also teach new mothers how to manage with normal issues, and request us for special issues.
Many mothers in other countries are told to prepare a birth plan – do you think that is necessary?
We get to know our pregnant mums very well so we have plenty of time to talk about all issues and make them feel comfortable. They must ask their doubts and fears, and we will make a special and personal "birth plan " for each one.
In what areas do you think Madrid could improve when it comes to maternity care?
In helping more with breastfeeding and during delivery.
How often are women required to go for a smear test?
It depends on each women: Is it the first time? Is everything ok? How old is she? How many babies has she delivered?.
Where should women go to get a smear test?
In our office.
How common is cervical cancer in Spain?
Cervical cancer rates in Spain is one of the lowest in the whole world: 4-10/100.000
Are you in favour of the vaccine for teenage girls against the HPV virus to protect against cervical cancer?
Of course
How common is breast cancer in Spain?
15.000 new breast cancers are detected per uyear.
What steps can women take to prevent it?
Breast feeding and check-ups
At what age do you advise women to start having mammograms?
40
For people interested in your services how do they contact you?
Instituto Ginecologico la Cigueña c/ Moreto, nº 5 . Tel: 902636969 and 914295278 or our email is tmunoz@laciguenia.com
