Copenhagen allocates five million krone for improved postpartum care services

Women are set to receive improved support when facing complications related to childbirth, according to a majority at Copenhagen City Hall. Over the next four years, the city plans to allocate approximately five million krone towards postpartum care services. Each year, around 10,000 babies are born in Copenhagen, with complications such as tearing occurring in half of these cases, which are reportedly not adequately addressed.

Health and Care Mayor Sisse Marie Welling emphasized the need for better prioritization in this area, noting that too few women receive appropriate guidance and rehabilitation assistance after experiencing tears that may lead to physical issues. She pointed out the disparity in post-operative care, stating that while knee surgeries come with extensive follow-up and rehabilitation options, childbirth is often left with little to no follow-up care or rehabilitation offerings.

Recognizing the physical strain of childbirth, Welling expressed concern about the lack of support for women after such a significant physical challenge.

Funding for addressing childbirth-related complications has been secured through Copenhagen’s budget agreement approved by seven political parties. The initiative includes hiring two specialists with expertise in the field, with the expectation of launching around 400 postpartum services annually by 2026.

Mie Ryborg-Larsen, chair of the organization ‘Forældre og Fødsel,’ expressed enthusiasm for the decision. She highlighted the importance of having specialists to offer advice, guidance, and rehabilitation, underscoring that many women need these services.

Beginning next spring, healthcare facilities, including hospitals and private gynecologists, will be able to refer women to these services, which will provide assessments, counseling, treatment, and supervised training, both individually and in groups.