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"Staff were beyond lovely and professional"

About: Maternity care / Maternity care (Ward 47)

(as a service user),

I had my elective c-section a couple of weeks ago. It was lovely to be welcomed into the recovery area before c section as we could leave our things before the surgery and knew where we would be back after it. Mags took great care of us pre and post surgery. Anaesthetist Victor was very approachable and knowledgeable, calmed me down during the placement of the spinal. Surgeon Sara was also very friendly and as this is my second c section, it felt more straightforward and my healing has been much better than my first which I believe is due to skill of the surgeon. All the theatre staff were beyond lovely and professional.

When we were brought up to Ward 47, student midwife Teresa was a sunshiney positive presence amongst the miserable heat of that scorching Friday in the ward. As my husband left early, Teresa went above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable handling the baby alone and had everything I needed within hands reach. Rema helped me mobilise for the first time at night and was really patient with me. 

A few negative things were that male partners were able to stay the night and were continuously using facilities for patients, but i've been informed that this policy is changing. Also, i'm aware that early mobilisation is key for c section recovery, but continuously having to walk to a water station (that I needed to bend to use) mere hours after a c-section, holding a baby and a catheter bag in one hand left me feeling abandoned during the night. I asked for my water to be refilled but was told to do if myself. 
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Responses

Response from Gaynor Bird, Lead Midwife, Maternity, NHSGGC 4 days ago
Gaynor Bird
Lead Midwife, Maternity,
NHSGGC
Submitted on 01/07/2025 at 11:04
Published on Care Opinion at 11:04


picture of Gaynor Bird

Dear SZ123,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your recent experience with us following your planned Caesarean birth here at QEUH Maternity. We are truly grateful for your thoughtful and detailed feedback.
We’re delighted to hear that your journey through surgery and recovery was met with kindness, professionalism, and skilled care. It’s heartening to know that Mags, Victor, Sara, Teresa, Rema, and the theatre team made such a positive impact on your experience. We will ensure your kind words are passed on to them—they will be deeply appreciated.
We’re also very pleased to hear that your recovery has been smoother this time around, and we’re proud that our team could support you in a way that made a meaningful difference.
We are, however, truly sorry to hear about the distress you experienced during the night, particularly regarding access to water and the physical strain so soon after surgery. We sincerely apologise that you felt unsupported at such a vulnerable time. We will review our postnatal care practices, including hydration access to ensure that all patients feel safe, cared for, and respected in those crucial early hours.
Regarding your comments about overnight partner stays and shared facilities, we appreciate your understanding as we have now as of 1st July implemented a new visiting policy which considers many of the points you have raised. Feedback from women is important and will be considered as we continue to improve the ward environment for all patients.
Thank you again for your honesty and your recognition of the staff who made a difference. We wish you and your family continued health and happiness as you settle into life with your new baby.
Best wishes

Gaynor

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