"Labour and maternity care"

I was admitted to ward 119 for an induction with pregnancy induced hypertension. It was very hot and very busy but I could not fault the care of the midwives who looked after me on that ward, I felt very safe and felt like I was listened to. My treatment on this ward involved an induction balloon and the midwives made sure I fully understood the treatment options and procedure before carrying it out, and they regularly updated me regarding next steps and options.

I was transferred to the labour ward when a room became available and again felt like I was in excellent hands. The midwives, midwifery student and medical team were closely monitoring me throughout and consistently explained in easy to understand terms/ gave me the chance to ask questions for all treatments and support throughout labour. This included getting my waters broken, and various pain relief options including an epidural. Ultimately I needed to have a c-section, and despite waiting a few hours longer than we were initially told to expect (the hospital seemed very busy), again I felt well looked after throughout. The theatre staff were all very kind, friendly and professional. The obstetrician who carried out the operation came to check on me afterwards.

Finally I thought the care on ward 210 postnatally was exceptional. We were there until discharge and all staff, especially Sandra who was in charge on the day shift, were brilliant. I received a lot of support to breast feed and express colostrum. The first night I could not get out of bed due to the spinal block from my c section, so the midwifery night shift staff helped to change my baby and even walked up and down the ward with him when he wouldn’t stop crying. Sandra was very friendly, supportive and so encouraging when we saw her during the day shifts. She arranged for medical checks/ treatments, medications and paperwork to be done in time for us getting discharged, as I was keen to get home. I was never put under any pressure to go home despite how busy the hospital seemed. 

I really appreciate the excellent care and support that my baby and I received, thank you very much to all the staff that looked after us.