Romania Chamber of Deputies adopts law allowing birth companions

The Romanian Chamber of Deputies has adopted a legislative initiative that allows expectant mothers to choose a companion to accompany them from the beginning of labor through childbirth. This companion can be the father or any other person of the mother's choosing, though participation remains entirely optional for the patient.

The law also mandates that maternity hospitals protect the privacy of patients during labor and delivery to ensure they are not exposed to the gaze of others. Implementation of this measure varies by facility. In Iași, the Arcadia maternity hospital has offered this option since 2010, while the 'Cuza Vodă' and 'Elena Doamna' hospitals are currently evaluating the necessary conditions for rollout.

Medical professionals have noted challenges regarding the presence of companions. At the 'Cuza Vodă' maternity hospital, previous attempts to allow fathers resulted in incidents where men fainted or fell in the delivery room, requiring medical staff to attend to both the patient and the companion. To manage safety and hygiene, hospitals may require companions to undergo clinical triage, show no respiratory symptoms, and wear provided protective equipment. Access to septic rooms for surgical interventions will remain restricted for companions due to epidemiological concerns.