"Birth at FBC"

I feel very privileged to have received care from the wonderful midwives at the Family Birth Centre throughout my pregnancy and to have been able to birth my baby there. This was my first birth, and I was allocated to midwife Katie, who was absolutely fantastic. She provided the resources, guidance, and support I needed to give me the best chance at having the unmedicated vaginal birth I had hoped for.

The pregnancy support was phenomenal. I went 12 days over my due date, and from 40 weeks I attended the MFAU for screening every couple of days. This period of care is probably the only part of my journey I could fault. We experienced significant waiting times to see a midwife or doctor, even when the department didn’t appear to be particularly busy, which was frustrating. I also felt strongly pressured toward induction, despite all screening results being completely fine. An induction was eventually booked for 42 weeks, as I would not have been eligible to birth at the Family Birth Centre beyond that point.

At 41+2 I went into early labour, with active labour beginning at 41+4. When we called the FBC, midwife Grace met us there and was fantastic. She got us settled, performed an exam (I was 4 cm), and created a calm environment.

I laboured in a birth suite with my husband, mum, and sister from 2am until 4.30pm. Along the way, interventions were offered as progress was slow. When I remained at 8cm for four hours, my waters were broken with my consent. From there, things progressed quickly and I was able to move to the bath for delivery.

The two midwives (Portia and Laura) and the student midwife were excellent. I felt cared for and supported the entire time. They guided me through every stage, offering nonstop encouragement during pushing. I felt completely safe, respected, and supported.

After my baby was born, active management of the placenta was undertaken, and the midwives stayed with me to explain early baby care, which was very reassuring. In the following five days, Katie and Olivia visited us at home. Their support was invaluable. They made me feel safe, heard, and cared for during those first fragile days of motherhood.

Overall, my Family Birth Centre experience was outstanding, and I would recommend it to any pregnant woman. I know how fortunate I was to have the birth I had hoped for, and I believe this was only possible because of the continuity of care the Birth Centre provides. The relationship I built with Katie throughout pregnancy, and the trust I developed in her, made all the difference.

Thank you for helping me achieve such a positive birth experience.