WOMB

Understanding Fetal Monitoring, Choice & Consent in Labour

What is WOMB

WOMB is a UK research and public involvement project exploring women’s experiences of fetal monitoring in labour, including the use of CTG (cardiotocography).

Many women are placed on a CTG monitor during labour. While this is often treated as routine, some women share that they were not given clear, balanced information about:

  • What the monitoring does

  • What it cannot do

  • How it may influence their labour and birth experience

This project creates space to listen, learn, and better understand these experiences, so care can be more informed, respectful, and supportive of real choice.

Explore women’s experiences of fetal monitoring in labour

Understand gaps in informed consent and communication

Identify disparities in CTG use across different communities

Support more equitable, informed, and respectful maternity care

Why This Project Matters

When information is unclear, it can affect how decisions are made.

In labour, monitoring is sometimes introduced as routine, without full explanation or discussion of options. This can impact a person’s sense of autonomy, understanding, and overall birth experience.

WOMB aims to:

  • Support clearer, more balanced information

  • Strengthen informed choice in maternity care

  • Highlight and reduce unfair differences in how care is provided

  • Ensure underrepresented voices are included in shaping change

How People Can Get Involved

There are flexible ways to take part:

  • Complete a multi-language online survey in your preferred language

  • Attend a workshop to share and reflect on experiences

  • Support by sharing the survey within your networks

  • Contribute to conversations about informed consent and care

You can choose the level of involvement that feels right for you.

Important Information

This work contributes to:

Clear information will be provided before participation

Consent will be requested where needed

Participation is voluntary and confidential

You may withdraw at any time

Are you eligible?

We are inviting:

  • Women and birthing people who have given birth in the UK

  • Individuals with experience of fetal monitoring (including CTG) during labour

  • People from all communities, especially those whose voices are often underrepresented

    Clinicians can also take part through a separate survey.

What Is Needed 

  • Must be 18+

  • Experience of giving birth in the UK

  • Willingness to share experiences (in a way that feels comfortable)

  • Able to provide informed consent where required

Your contributions will help develop

This work contributes to:

  • Greater awareness of baby loss in the Black community for families and healthcare professionals

  • Ensuring those who need help and support can share their healthcare experiences safely

  • Contribute to compassionate and culturally safe resources

  • Safer, more understanding support pathways

  • Ongoing learning to improve care and services

Support & Care

Your wellbeing is important throughout this work:

Participation is always optional

You can skip questions or step away at any time

Workshop spaces are designed to be respectful and supportive

If you have given birth in the UK and would like to share your experience: