This information explains how this works as part of your postnatal care.
Self-administration of postnatal pain relief
Eligible women may be able to self-administer prescribed pain relief medications while staying on the Postnatal Ward, on Levels 5 and 7 of the John Radcliffe Hospital. Medication is supplied by the ward and stored securely at the bedside.
This approach gives you greater control over managing your pain, allowing you to take your medication when it is due, without waiting for a member of staff to administer it.
Research* shows that self-medication can improve patient independence, confidence, and satisfaction with care while supporting effective pain management during recovery after birth.
Your midwife or nurse will discuss self-administration with you and ensure you feel comfortable and confident before doing it.
Faster access to medications
The Postnatal Ward at the John Radcliffe Hospital also has additional medication trolleys to support the safe and timely supply of medicines. Every midwife and nurse has access to their own drug trolley during medication rounds.
This supports the timely administration of medications, including pain relief and other prescribed treatments.
Questions about your medication and recovery
The self-administration scheme forms part of our approach to supporting safe, effective postnatal care. We hope it will support a smoother recovery and help you focus on what matters most, spending time with your new baby.
If you have any questions about your medications or the self-medication scheme, please speak to your midwife or nurse, who will be happy to help.
