"A positive, professional and caring experience"

I wanted to share the really positive experience I had on Wards 47, 48 and the labour suite, with a massive thanks and appreciation for midwives Joyce and Rosalie, and their trainees Ellie and Catherine.

I was admitted during a prolonged latent labour. The midwives made sure I was as comfortable as possible as my labour slowly progressed. It is definitely difficult conditions in the pre-labour ward given the women are there for various reasons, but the staff were all reassuring and graceful, ensuring I was as comfortable as possible.

When I finally progressed to the labour suite, Joyce and Ellie were incredible. So kind, patient and professional, they coached me through my labour and made me feel so safe. They were brilliant at involving my husband and keeping us both informed as my labour progressed.

Sadly their shift ended before my baby girl burst into the world, but I could not have been in better hands than Rosalie’s as we got transferred to the night shift team. She continued the expert coaching, explaining everything clearly and concisely as she went, especially when I was almost required to go to theatre. She involved a doctor at appropriate times and helped safely bring my baby girl here. I required a few stitches afterwards which Rosalie did like an absolute perfectionist. I felt in really safe hands throughout. The team were really patient and supportive as we moved back upstairs.

The post-labour ward was another excellent experience. Again, challenging with the various people staying on the ward, but all staff was helpful, informative and reassuring. I felt like I was in a really positive and safe environment, especially as a first time mum. 

Anyone planning to deliver at QEUH can be reassured that it will hopefully be a positive, professional and caring experience - especially if you’re lucky enough to be with Joyce or Rosalie.

My only negative comment would be the visitation on ward. Some groups were extremely noisy, we had one instance where 4 people were blasting FaceTime calls and videos simultaneously as babies were crying. As much as people should show common courtesy, behaviours like this could benefit from some intervention by ward staff, or even a no phones on loud / quieten down after 10pm rule, especially as no one seems to use headphones anymore!