Delivery table, Europe, 1945-1955

Delivery table, fully adjustable with padded mattress. The main body of the bed sits on four wheels with an extendable section at the foot. This can be slid underneath when not in use.

Delivery beds are used on maternity wards when a mother goes into labour. The bed is padded and designed to be fully adjustable and easily cleaned. The main body of the bed sits on four wheels with an extendable section at the foot. This can slide underneath when not in use. Delivery bed design has changed little since this mid 20th century example.

Many hospitals now have dedicated ‘birthing suites’ to look more inviting and less clinical to prospective parents. These offer mothers birthing options such as water births. Alternative pain relief such as acupuncture is occasionally offered. This delivery table was donated by Louth and District Hospital, Lincolnshire, England, after the maternity ward closed in April 1984.