"First pregnancy and birth experience"

I was lucky enough to be looked after by the wonderful antenatal team at CGH for my first pregnancy. From the first appointment with the midwives and obstetritian early on, to the actual birth and days after, they were amazing! I honestly don't have enough words for how personable, conscientious and generous they are with their time and knowledge. They made me feel comfortable and that no question was silly. They were always approachable. During the pregnancy, they welcomed phone calls to the ward with any questions if you were concerned. 

During the birth itself, they were very open to my wishes, communicated well when there were required changes and involved my husband in everything too. They even put up with our terrible humour!

I had some complications with the after birth - the whole team was very calm but timely in transitioning me to surgery, all the while reassuring me. The anaesthetist heard me out when I mentioned my last terrible general anaesthetic experience and as a result he changed it up and I had the best anaesthetic experience yet! Thanks Henry.

My stay in hospital after was met with a stream of familiar and new midwives, all very helpful, attentive, understanding and proactive. They were always available, despite having a full ward, for our naive first-time-parent questions. They supported my attempt at breastfeeding but were also realistic to my needs and the needs of my baby. I have since learnt that despite their ward being the only one that multiplies their patients during the stay, they only get to count the mother as part of their ratio. Despite this, they are doing double the work looking after both mother and baby/ies (whilst also navigating the father and visiting family members etc). The maternity ward is the only one where you go in as one patient and come out as at least 2 patients. And yet it's the most happiest and supportive, with midwives going above and beyond, day and night. I was exhausted on their behalf!

Special shout out to Jo, Jess, Lucia and Dr Braga - you were there the most throughout my journey. I very much appreciated the consistency of your friendly faces and your memory for your patients, despite having so many. You were all so calm and invested in my journey, I truly felt looked after beyond all expectation. 

On behalf of my daughter, husband and myself, thank you!!