The organisation will outline its full views when it holds its Scottish conference in Helensburgh on Saturday.

The NCT says it is responding to what it believes is badly managed resources in maternity services.

'Review needed'

It asserts that women with low risk pregnancies are routinely seeing consultant obstetricians when specialist medical care should be used for women who need extra help or who have high risk pregnancies or complications.

The organisation believes individual units must review their effectiveness in achieving greater continuity of care.

Liz Goudie, the Scotland trustee of the NCT, said: "Health professionals need to listen to women and give them better information to help them make better decisions about their care, this needs to start as early as possible in pregnancy.

On-going training

"It is not sufficient just to tell parents things. Health professionals need on-going training in communication skills if they are to communicate effectively."

She added that the NCT was fully aware about limited funds but money should be used to best effect.

The issue of finance is expected to be raised at the conference which will be attended by the Scottish Minister for Health and Community Care, Susan Deacon MSP.

NCT member, Cynthia Clarkson, said: "Ignoring the quality of postnatal care leaves a yawning gap.

"This is the Cinderella service of maternity care and yet it is vital for the well-being of mother and babies.

"It is the time when breastfeeding is established and parenting begins in earnest.