A SCHEME that sees new mums and mums-to-be discussing their ante and postnatal experiences aims to shape the future of maternity provision in the Vale and Cardiff for the better.

Cardiff and the Vale NHS Trust's Local Maternity Services User Group gives a cross section of women the chance to share their perceptions of maternity services in Llandough Hospital and the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff.

Two forums have been held so far at the Cardiff hospital.

New mum Nicola Lewis, a GP from Cathays, Cardiff, has found both sessions useful.

"As a GP, I know how important it is for us to give our opinions and perspectives.

"These sessions are much better than writing our opinions down.

"Personally, I had a difficult delivery, but antenatal and postnatal care was good."

Issues discussed at the most recent meeting on Friday were home births, who to call directly when you are uncertain about something during pregnancy and the possibility of informal meeting groups where mums-to-be can'go on and on about the same sorts of things without sounding like a bore'.

Points raised in each meeting are relayed to the trust board.