Auckland Hospital's telling expectant mothers to be prepared to be sent home within three to four hours after giving birth

The quick-discharge policy comes as the hospital's maternity and birthing services have been under sustained pressure, due to workforce shortages.

Health NZ's sending the official advice to women booked to give birth at the hospital.

It also says if you're well and have a healthy pregnancy, they support the choice to give birth at a primary care facility such as Birthcare or at home.

Acting director of women's health Jenny McDougall says the letter's advice isn't related to resourcing and discharge timeframes have been standard practice for many years and aren't absolute.