"Giving Birth"

I went through the Midwife group who took excellent care of me whilst pregnant with my second child. My first pregnancy was very smooth but the labour was very traumatic. It was through a different hospital. I was hoping that for my second birth that I wouldn't have to be induced and that I would have less pain after the birth.

I naturally went into labour at 40 weeks and went straight to admissions where my midwife Ginny met me. Having appointments with Ginny throughout the pregnancy made the world of difference to me, having a familiar face when arriving and put my anxieties at ease. She took us to the birthing ward. During the process she talked us though the process and spoke about options. When my pain increased she offered gas and that's all I needed. I felt so empowered not requiring any further pain relief and felt in very safe hands that I was going to get through the other side without further intervention.

My beautiful son was born about 7 hours later. He had low oxygen levels so needed to be monitored in the neonatal unit for 24 hours and was sent to the ward for a further 24 hours to ensure that he continued to improve, which he did. The care we received on the ward and neonatal unit was exceptional.

I could not be happier with the support, care and compassion I received during the whole process. Even beyond the hospital the care I received from the midwives continued into my home. Ginny's colleague, Maddi, completed two home visits. I had met Maddi in hospital as she transferred me to the ward just shortly after giving birth. Again it was lovely to have a familiar face who was very understanding and supportive navigating a newborn and two year old.

I think for women who have a straight forward pregnancy this is the most wonderful program. It has been an extremely healing process for me and I am absolutely thrilled with how this labour happened.