"SHSCT Birth at Home Team"

I had been attending the midwives in Daisy Hill Hospital throughout my pregnancy, however after commencing a Hypnobirthing course we considered a home birth due to the importance the environment plays during labour. I was not allowed to see the delivery suite in DHH and that was causing some level of worry as we did not know what to expect. At home, we could have the room set up as we wanted and that helped massively. I was over 30 weeks pregnant when we made the decision of having a home birth.

The antenatal care that we received from the Birth at Home Team cannot be compared to anything. It is beyond amazing. It is completely person- centred, there is no rushing to get the appointment finished with and the personalities, care and attention of each individual team member, made our journey so special. The visits happened in the comfort of our home and the checks completed with baby were fantastic. 

My husband was worried about a home birth, wondering if it would be safe as there is no doctor in the home and what if things went wrong. In the initial visit from Paula and Sadie, they had provided us with their knowledge and experience that made us both feel safe and able to proceed with a home birth. The biggest relief was knowing that should I have needed to transfer into hospital, ambulance control and the midwifery unit were already notified at the beginning of my labour and therefore they would be expecting me. 

During my labour, Sadie and Lois were such a good source of support and we all had great craic also which made things easier. These ladies were by my side when I needed them and also left my husband and I in private at times. We had the most magical birth story and they both respected my birth plan. We are forever grateful to Sadie and Lois for helping us bring our baby girl safely into this world in the comfort of our own home.

The postnatal care has also been phenomenal. Again, visits are person- centred, there is no rush, you feel empowered to ask questions and reassured by the extensive knowledge of the team. My husband and I cannot thank the Birth at Home team enough, they are only operating in the last year and we wish them every success in the future.

I would encourage any woman or couple to at least consider a home birth. It might not be for everyone, but when you educate yourself on the less risks associated with home births and you become involved with this team, you can be assured that the care provided to you will be exceptional. Thank you to the full team and in particular Paula, Sadie and Lois. We will never forget you all.