"Treatment postpartum"

The birth of a child should leave you feeling elated, however on this occasion at the birth of a family member's child, what I witnessed, I believe was tragic. The mother, a beautiful & vulnerable young woman, new to Australia, English being her second language was treated by one particular midwife?(unknown as she never identified herself), in what I felt was such a disgusting manner that I believe borders abusive and most certainly bullying. She shouted and belittled with what I feel was a demeaning tone at the mother and even ripped the covers of the baby in an aggressive manner! I tried to intervene and protect, which agitated her and seemed to give her cause to escalate her very appalling and unprofessional behaviour and further target me during my visit! She had absolutely no reason to behave this way! We couldn't even ask questions as she was so snappy and low browing! It was frightening and shocking from the minute she first burst into the room flustered after the mother's c section and the behaviour continued throughout her shift.

In my opinion, disgusting, inhumane.

Showing patient care and empathy; support and professionalism should be first and foremost.

I will never forget how this woman marred what should of been a joyous occasion.

It was a good event free c section. I'm well versed in births and newborns. I have seen many things good and poor. But this is very notable and should be brought to attention.

Furthermore other staff made assumptions twice in conversation referring to me as grandmother! I'm certainly no way anywhere near to being a grandmother! They simply could have just asked my name. I thought - how rude!  When corrected, I was made to feel stupid by what I believe was a retaliatory biting response from one!

I would suggest counseling for the midwife (& staff members) and clear messages to patients and visitors, the process to undertake in the immediate threat of being unsafe and bullied that are visible and accessible and for BRH to respond and act.