Your birth

Had a planned c-section which I was very nervous about, staff in the theatre and in recovery were absolutely amazing and were able to support us so we felt comfortable with our new baby.

-Southend Hospital

Had a planned c-section which I was very nervous about, staff in the theatre and in recovery were absolutely amazing and were able to support us so we felt comfortable with our new baby.
The midwifes at WJC are beyond amazing, the care they provided me throughout my pregnancy, then in my labour and with my baby whilst we stayed a few days after was second to none.

-William Julien Court Birthing unit

The midwifes at WJC are beyond amazing, the care they provided me throughout my pregnancy, then in my labour and with my baby whilst we stayed a few days after was second to none.
Excellent care. I had a VBAC and was fully supported in all of my choices and well informed with any decisions that were advised for me. I felt listened to and well cared for at all times.

-Basildon Hospital

Excellent care. I had a VBAC and was fully supported in all of my choices and well informed with any decisions that were advised for me. I felt listened to and well cared for at all times.
Service and level of care received was impeccable. I couldn't have asked for more. Care was outstanding!

-Broomfield Hospital

Service and level of care received was impeccable. I couldn't have asked for more. Care was outstanding!

Temporary movement of antenatal appointments from WJC Birthing Centre

Please be aware, that from August 30, 2024, for 12 months, pregnancy and antenatal appointments will temporarily move from William Julien Courtauld Birthing Centre (WJC) to Braintree Community Hospital due to construction of the new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) next to WJC.

Women and birthing people coming for births or postnatal care will use a separate entrance to minimise noise and ensure safety, although temporary closures may be necessary during disruptive work.

Midwives will be contacting women and birthing people about the changes and those who wish to birth at WJC to inform them of the potential for noise during the building works. Please contact your midwife if you have any questions or concerns.

Your birth, our care

We are committed to providing you with exceptional care and support throughout your pregnancy, labour, and birth, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and positive experience. To familiarise yourself with our maternity services, take a look at our virtual maternity video tours, which provide an informative glimpse into our labor and delivery suites, birthing rooms, and postnatal care facilities.

Learn more about the stages of labour and birth at https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/labour-and-birth.

Visiting information

Postnatal ward visiting hours are 9am to 8.30pm at all hospitals.

At all sites, a partner can attend throughout the induction process between 9am and 8.30pm.

Once in established labour, the second birth partner can attend. If you have Covid-19, you can have one birthing partner. If your planned birth partner has Covid-19, they cannot attend.

Please do not bring any real flowers as they may affect our patients and are an infection risk.

Getting ready for birth resources

Ready to meet your little one? Check out our helpful resources for expectant parents, including information on preparing for birth and choosing a birthing location.