"My experience with the maternity clinic at Cohuna hospital"

I had all my prenatal care and delivered my first baby at Cohuna Hospital in 2020, and it was such a wonderful experience becoming a new mum.

So when I fell pregnant with my second baby, I wasn’t sure what things would look like this time. Would I need to travel to Echuca for every appointment? Or even Bendigo?

At my first appointment with my GP, I was relieved to learn that there were still midwives working at Cohuna Hospital. I could attend almost all of my prenatal appointments locally, with just two visits to Echuca Hospital, where I would also deliver my baby. Even better, my Cohuna midwife would be able to join me in Echuca for the birth.

I was overjoyed. It meant minimal travel and the opportunity to receive consistent care from the same midwife throughout my pregnancy.

At my first appointment at Cohuna Hospital, I met my midwife. From the beginning, she made me feel comfortable and supported. I was given a fantastic handbook with all the information I needed, along with a clear schedule of upcoming appointments.

One of the most reassuring aspects of the care at Cohuna was knowing that even when my midwife wasn’t working, there was still 24/7 access to a midwife at the hospital. It gave me such peace of mind to know that if I ever had concerns or felt something wasn’t quite right, support was always there.

As the pregnancy progressed and appointments became weekly, it made such a difference to be able to attend them locally—especially at a time when I was no longer working and finances were tighter.

But beyond the convenience and cost savings, the most important part of my experience was the care I received from my midwife. Building a trusting and safe relationship with her, and then having her by my side during labour—when you are at your most vulnerable—was incredibly special.

Her care, support, and thorough guidance throughout my pregnancy were truly unmatched. I feel so grateful for the experience I had, and I sincerely hope that every mother in Cohuna has the opportunity to receive the same level of compassionate and supportive care that I did.