"My Birth Story"

We had planned to give birth at the Family Birth Centre and were placed in MGP2 with Steph as our Midwife and had Megan as our Student Midwife. We had a wonderful experience in the lead up to the birth, and felt safe and informed at each appointment and loved the continuity of care. Both Steph and Megan were professional, and we trusted them completely. At 41 weeks I went into spontaneous labour, arrived at the FBC and upon examination noted I was fully dilated however we had a limb presenting first. Steph was calm and clear, got a second opinion to confirm and then I was transferred to KEMH to continue to process. Knowing our birth preference, the obstetrician at KEMH offered to try a vaginal breech birth and outlined the possible outcomes and risks, and that it might still end in C-Section. Being offered the breech birth was really rewarding and I am so grateful this was offered. Unfortunately I was not able to deliver her breeched as there were a few other complications so we did end up with a C-Section but I was well informed throughout the entire thing. Every person who played a role in the birth was truly admirable - friendly, calm, personable and reassuring. Steph stayed with us the whole time and kept us her priority. Once she arrived, the paediatric doctors took her away to continue working on her - I was warned this would happen - so I didn't worry when it occurred. 

I was briefly offered skin to skin and then she was taken to the NICU for additional help. It was several hours until I could see her again however was looked after by the recovery team and nurses. We stayed 2 nights in Hospital at Ward 3 and had a really positive experience, every nurse connected with us and showed genuine interest and care. Overall, it was a wonderful reminder that birth preferences really are just a preference and it is important to be educated on the 'what ifs', which FBC did really well through their online classes and regular appointments. We had a really wonderful experience and are grateful to all staff members who helped bring our baby into the world and support us in the first few days.