A PREGNANT woman has made an impassioned plea to Daylesford Hospital to keep its maternity unit open.
Daylesford's Kim Percy said she had recently returned from holidaying overseas and been "shocked" to read that the birthing unit was to be closed by the end of the year.
"I am currently 16 weeks pregnant with our second child and had fully anticipated that I would be enjoying the care and service I experienced with our first child at Daylesford again with our second," she said.
"My initial shock has also turned to concern for the many expectant parents I know of around town, many of who are having their first baby.
"The article in The Advocate mentioned a downturn in the number of births, which is by no means evident in the many pregnant women I know or the new babies I see.
"Daylesford is regarded as a growth area and many of the new people to town are younger couples or families.
"Many of us have moved to the area to start families and attracted to the region for the facilities available."
Ms Percy said the birth of her son had been "a very pleasant experience" and she would have not considered driving to Ballarat or Kyneton unless facing an emergency.
"My partner and I had planned to have our second child at Daylesford Hospital early next year," she said.
"Due to the closure of the birthing room we are looking at alternatives (and) are now considering a home delivery as our birthing option, as are many other couples in our predicament."
Ms Percy said she had also heard of expectant parents being "actively discouraged" from booking their births in Daylesford Hospital.
"What additional facilities and preparations are being made in Ballarat or Kyneton to offer a birthing service to the women of Daylesford?
"I am aware the birthing ward at Ballarat Base (Hospital) has been stretched to capacity on several occasions recently.
"Having a wonderful and supportive birthing room in town is an asset to our community - do we want to lose a piece of our future?"