"Amazing pregnancy, birth and post-birth care"

King Edward Memorial Hospital - What a place!

Upon finding out I was pregnant with my second child, I knew I wanted to access a public hospital, having birthed my first at a public hospital in Victoria. Fortunately, we were in the King Edward Memorial Hospital (KEMH) catchment. I applied early to the Family Birthing Centre (FBC) and was accepted into the midwifery-led program.

I had the pleasure of meeting several midwives during my pre-natal period, all of whom were awesome. Down-to-earth, relatable, very well researched in their practices whilst being just really cool people. Samile, Louisa and Ciara were fabulous.

Samile made me excited for the pregnancy and involved my 2-year-old in the appointments by letting her 'help' with the measurements and doppler.

Ciara was always hilarious at appointments and was there for our birth, coming in at 4am bright as a daisy! Ciara's support during birth was exactly what I had wished for - she reminded me that I was strong and could do this. She was cheeky and made my partner and I laugh many times during labour, which is something I cherish.

The midwives on the labour and delivery ward we dealt with were also brilliant. Absolute advocates of their patients. Being a medical induction, many interventions are suggested, however, my midwife (wish I remembered her name!) reminded me that I had choices and time to consider them. Thanks to that midwife, I was educated and empowered to make decisions to stay safe and reduce the medical interventions received. I was supported to birth in the way I wanted to. A medication-free delivery was what I had wished for, and what I fortunately got. Also, the delivery room was gorgeous!

Louisa - Words cannot express my gratitude for this amazing woman. Louisa is the reason I was able to breastfeed for months rather than days. Louisa would attend home visits and schedule extra appointments to ensure my baby and I were thriving and supported to breastfeed. Breastfeeding in the past has been a grief-riddled experience, but this time it was different, this time was a beautiful experience, and I attribute that to the support of Louisa, the FBC and the Lactation Consultants at KEMH. Louisa, your soothing and caring nature and your passion for women has made a world of difference to us. Further to this, the pregnancy had complications, and we were seen multiple times at the Women's Assessment Unit, the Outpatient Clinic, pathology and radiology. The staff at the Women's Assessment Unit always greeted us with a smile, regardless of how busy there were, and offered tea and sandwiches. The outpatient clinic was well-run, again, despite being busy.

Pathology was always a quick, easy and painless visit.

Radiology - the unsung heroes. The staff who came out and made sure the patients had seats and moved visitors out; I know this was difficult for you but SO appreciated by patients. Thank you for ensuring this common courtesy. The visitors moving didn't seem to mind!

Overall, I highly rate KEMH and its services. We are incredibly fortunate to have access to this kind of care and my family and I are incredibly grateful. Thank you!