"Every mother's dream experience"

After having quite a scary pregnancy and terrifying birth with my first baby I was terrified of having a 2nd baby and going through what we went through the first time. It actually hindered us trying for another baby until I felt fully emotionally and mentally ready. We found out we were pregnant in December and we were delighted but still afraid. But then, in stepped the continuity midwife team. A dream team. At our booking scan I met my midwife Bronwen and from our first greeting I knew I was in safe hands. Throughout my pregnancy Bronwen checked in with me and my husband, she answered any questions or concerns I had, she listened to me and more importantly she really heard me. I spilled all my worries and concerns and fears on to her and everything I was afraid about for this pregnancy. I didn't feel judged, I didn't feel insane, I felt validated which immediately put me at ease.

With my first pregnancy I never saw the same person twice so I never felt fully comfortable in the care. Everyone had different opinions and different methods and I felt like I couldn't get settled because everyone differed so much. So to have the same person throughout the 6 months and the birth was amazing. We got to know each other and I was able to put my complete faith and trust into Bronwen's medical care. I felt comfortable to contact her with any concerns I had and I knew she was there when and if needed.

With each appointment at the midwife unit I got to know the team more. They always made me feel so welcome, ready for a chat or in my case a moan. Again, they got to know me and my family personally and would even check in and ask how my daughter and husband was as well as this pregnancy. 

After meeting with consultants and different doctors in hospital I would relay information and chat to Bronwen about how the appointments went because I knew no matter what, Bronwen had me and my baby's best interest at heart and mind and she would always keep me on the safe and right path. Because she had built that personal relationship with me she knew my triggers and she knew how to settle and calm me if the fears took over. 

I decided I wanted to go for a vbac and Bronwen supported my decision and talked me through it. Half way through I changed my mind and opted for a section and again, Bronwen supported my decision and talked me through it.

Now it was time for my C-section and I am obviously a state and in a panic. My wonderful midwife team were there from the minute I entered the hospital, holding my hand, cracking jokes, talking to me and keeping me calm. Bronwen who had already done a nightshift came to my section to be there for me and my baby. To say I cried hysterically is an understatement. I have never felt so special or cared for in all my life. She held my hand throughout my section, not only looking after me and baby but my husband as well. She kept me informed of every step, stroked my head if I began to panic and celebrated with me when my beautiful son was born. She made sure we were settled and happy in recovery and had everything we could possibly need before she went home to sleep.  

Bronwen will forever be part of our family and we will always love her for everything she has done for me, my son and our whole family. Midwife, counsellor, friend and angel on earth. 

I cannot thank the continuity midwife care team enough for everything they have done for us. It is an unbelievable service and team. without them my pregnancy would have been an entirely different experience. I know that I could contact any one of those angels and I would have received exceptional care and I'll actually miss going down for my appointments and seeing the girls.

Thank you all for everything. It is appreciated more than you will ever know.