"Pregnancy and aftercare"

I recently had a baby boy, my birth started as planned in the Perth Midwife Unit where I was assisted by Kirsty and Robyn. Due to complications I was transferred via ambulance to Ninewells and Kirsty was by my side for the full journey (as my partner was not allowed to travel in the ambulance), she stayed with me and handed over to Ella and Hannah, the midwives I was assigned in Ninewells. Kirsty didn’t leave my side until she was sure I felt safe with the team in Dundee. 

While waiting for surgery, both Ella and Hannah stayed with me, kept me calm and offered reassurance during an extremely scary time. When we went into surgery, Ella held my hand and her calmness was reassuring when I knew we had entered complications while the team tried to administer the anaesthetic. A senior anaesthetist (Andre) was called and his calm, joking manner once again helped to reassure me and keep me calm. My baby was safely delivered by Doctor Alex via forceps without need for a cesarian section. There were a number of doctors, nurses, anaesthetists and midwives in the theatre and I am sorry that I cannot remember everyone’s name but I would like to thank everyone that was present and played a part in safely delivering my son into the world. 

Over the following hours, my partner and I were looked after by Ella. She made us the best tea and toast I have ever had, another nurse also made my partner sandwiches as we had an extremely long day and he hadn’t been able to eat. Ella stayed with us until early morning when we were transferred to Ward 38 for care. 

Myself, my partner and our son stayed in ward 38 for 3 days and the care we received was outstanding. Nothing was too much trouble and the care provided was mindful, respectful and many staff went above their duties to make our stay more comfortable. 

During the following week I was re-admitted to Ninewells after a visit to the Perth Royal Infirmary A&E department. The reception staff at A&E in Perth were so kind and helpful. When we arrived in Ninewells we entered the wrong area of the maternity unit however an extremely kind midwife, Mrs Brown provided exemplary care and eased the pain I was in as quickly as she could. She treated me with dignity and showed extreme kindness. I am currently back on ward 38 and feel safe knowing I will be looked after by such amazing medical professionals. 

Overall, although my birth did not go to plan and was traumtic at times, the kindness and care of the staff at both Ninewells and Perth Royal Infirmary has allowed me to still think positively of the experience. I will be forever grateful for the compassion I have been shown during my time in hospital.