"Maternity care"

I would like to thank all of the maternity staff at the Ulster and in community. From start to finish during my pregnancy I was well cared for, listened to and felt respected in my decision making. 

My birth didn't go as I had hoped, resulting in failed induction and an emergency c section, but throughout the 4 days in Ulster all the midwives continuously tried to get me back on track to birth in home from home, and when it was clear I couldn't they tried their best to give me some elements of that experience in the labour ward instead. Throughout the induction process the midwives listened to me and helped me make informed decisions about my care. A particular thank you to Megan, Claire, Lisa and Rae who were my primary care across 3 days. 

The surgeons and particularly anesthesiologist Andrea were very kind throughout my surgery, kept me talking and occupied and my daughter was born safely to my wedding song.

After my surgery I was extremely exhausted and distressed that I unable to properly care for baby due to the sedation, but the midwives and nursing support staff ensured she was cared for and safe, giving me support when I needed it most. 

They worked hard to get me discharged quickly, explained all my follow up care and what to expect and made sure I knew how to access support once I went home. 

What could have been a very traumatic and scary experience for me was made as positive as possible due to the care I received from the staff. While I didn't get the birth story I hoped for, I was well supported throughout a difficult experience and can't thank them enough for getting my stubborn daughter here safely. 

My only criticism is that after the surgery I was very vulnerable. I had had 4 hours' sleep in 3 days and was physically unable to move. I struggled to hold my baby and give her basic care. As my surgery was late (arriving to the maternity ward at midnight) my husband was sent home at 1am, leaving me and my baby in a very difficult and fairly dangerous position which I found quite traumatic as I was trying to force myself to stay awake and comfort my crying baby while under the effects of sedation.

If it weren't for the support of the staff overnight it could have been a very different outcome. In situations like this maybe it would be beneficial for partners to have extended visiting or able to stay overnight to provide care.