Eastbourne Midwifery Unit could remain closed until late April
The birth unit first closed temporarily in December
East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust have confirmed the Eastbourne Midwifery unit could remain shut for births until late April.
The trust said they are now undertaking a review with maternity colleagues to develop a new staffing model.
The unit was first shut to births because of staffing challenges in December, and the closure was extended twice.
They have said they hope the review would enable them to resume births at Eastbourne DGH and provide safe community midwifery services.
The work is expected to be completed by the end of April.
Currently the only option for local mothers is to give birth at home or to travel to Conquest Hospital in Hastings.
East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust said:
"The current suspension is just the latest over recent months and underlines the challenge around recruiting trained midwives due to the national shortage.
"The suspension impacts around three births a week, but the unit has remained open throughout for outpatient antenatal and postnatal services.
"Our maternity team are in touch with anyone who is affected, to discuss their options which include giving birth at home or at Conquest Hospital, and reassuring them that they will be fully supported with safe and effective maternity care."