"Amazing support from the Midwives at KEMH"

I am an Indigenous Australian and when I was notified of the hospital I would attend for my pregnancy, I was lucky enough to have received a position in the Midwifery Group Practice (MGP) Program which provided me with pregnancy care from the same small group of midwives (Maddi and Jess) who stayed with me for the duration of my pregnancy, labour and birth and in the postnatal period.

My husband and I were given the utmost care being a part of the MGP program, and I was able to build a strong and trusting relationship with the midwives and get all the best advice and information to prepare me for birth. My birth plan consisted of a spontaneous labour, natural birth and hoping to do it all pain-relief free.

When I was still pregnant at 41 weeks with no sign of labour pains, I had to have scans and discuss with the Doctors alternative plans for my birth as our baby was overdue and measuring quite large. We prepared a date for an induction later that week, however, several hours later my early-labour contractions commenced and 24 hours later I was in the hospital getting ready for birth.

I gave natural birth to my beautiful and healthy son who was 4. 303kg and measuring 53cm long, I had two midwives (Jess and a student midwife Greta) throughout the whole labour and because there were no complications, they were the only one's present (apart from my husband) to help me give birth. My birth plan being natural and pain-relief free went accordingly and with the exception of having nitrous oxide during my labour pains and the addition of a hot shower and some RNB + Country music in the birthing suite I am so happy to say that "WE DID IT" and ever so grateful for the help, care and support of the midwives in the MGP program and at King Edwards Memorial Hospital.

I did have minor surgery to remove my placenta and stayed overnight at Kind Edward Memorial Hospital- the midwives that cared for me overnight were genuinely some of the kindest people we had ever met and so helpful with tips to help my baby latch with breastfeeding. Every midwife that checked in and monitored the baby and myself was so passionate, everyone who came to change towels, sheets, or deliver meals went above and beyond with their service to ensure that we had the best care and treatment.

We cannot thank the hospital staff enough and especially the Midwives in the MGP program. You have inspired me with the amazing work you do, I will be singing your praises to any people thinking about starting a family. Thank you all - I cannot wait to have my next birth in the care of the staff at King Edward Memorial Hospital.