Every listen helps
19 MAY 2026
Rachel McCormack, Foetal Monitoring Lead Midwife, set out to reconnect her team with one of the most fundamental tools in midwifery, the Pinard stethoscope. With the aim of ensuring every midwife and student midwife had immediate access to one, Rachel requested 350 Pinards for use across the service.
Her motivation was twofold. She wanted midwives to be able to listen to foetal heartbeats without relying solely on electronic monitoring, and to maintain the core skills of midwifery through direct, hands-on care. Using a Pinard allows midwives to listen directly to the foetal heartbeat, supporting attentive bedside practice and strengthening confidence in traditional techniques.
To mark the initiative, Rachel organised a festive Pinard Christmas Campaign. She and her team wrapped each Pinard, adding chocolates before distributing them across the service, ensuring every midwife received their own as a practical and thoughtful gift.
Reflecting on the project, Rachel said:
“I wanted staff to have their own Pinards, as they were not always easy to locate on the wards. I strongly believe in getting back to basics. Using a Pinard allows midwives to listen to the foetal heartbeat themselves rather than relying on what a monitor interprets, supporting accurate assessment and meaningful interaction with mothers.”
Rachel added:
“The plastic Pinard is lightweight, easy to carry, and clinically clean. It produces a clear sound and requires very little maintenance, making it a reliable and accessible piece of equipment for everyday practice.”
The initiative is particularly valuable for student midwives, reinforcing the importance of not relying entirely on electronic equipment. For mothers who prefer minimal intervention, the Pinard supports foetal monitoring without machinery or wires, helping to maintain a calm environment and personalised care.
By ensuring every midwife and student midwife has access to a Pinard, Rachel has strengthened skills, confidence, and autonomy across the team, supporting accurate assessment, human connection, and compassionate care at the heart of midwifery practice.
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