"Achieving my VBAC birth with MGP 4/5"

I was lucky enough to be accepted into the MGP 4/5 program with Midwives Viviane and Beck. I chose this model as I knew it had a high success rate with VBAC births.

I was provided with excellent antenatal care in the lead up to my labour and birth where I was heard, supported and advocated for by my midwives.

On the day of my labour I was under Midwife Beck’s care and she provided the calm reassurance that I needed to labour unmedicated to best facilitate a physiological labour and birth.

Unfortunately mine and my baby’s heart rate became too high that obstetric intervention was required. The team that came were professional, calm and empathetic explaining everything that was happening. I was being prepped for surgery under a suspected scar rupture. Fortunately my scar was completely fine and by the time I got to theatre my baby had fully descended and I was able to push my baby out in theatre with the help of the obstetric and surgical team, along with my midwife. Everyone in the theatre was so supportive, congratulatory and overall I had such a lovely experience.

Later that evening one of the surgeons (I can’t remember her name unfortunately) came to the ward to see me after her shift at 11pm to see if I had any questions about what had happened. That kind of care, I find to be completely outstanding. I felt heard and cared for as an individual rather than a standard patient. That will stay with me as a very special moment that someone cared so much about my experience.

I would also like to add that my care on the ward after my labour and birth was fantastic. All the midwives and support staff (cleaners and orderlies) were caring, attentive, friendly making me feel so comfortable and supported during my stay. The midwives were excellent at anticipating my needs and I cannot fault their care.

All of this comes off the back of my first birthing experience at a private hospital which was incredibly difficult and traumatising. I found my experience at KEMH to be quite healing, and for that I am very grateful.