"Breastfeeding support"

I was an outpatient for breastfeeding support after a very normal yet unfortunately also traumatic experience at RD&E -- which is chronically understaffed and offered negligible breastfeeding support (they are well meaning but never turn up when they say they will and after a day in hospital ward with four newborns anyone is desperate to leave).

This could not have been more different. I was one of three other mums on the ward accessing the service at the time. Food was available. A relaxing couch in an empty communal room with a TV, as well as various bed heights to practise on. A non intrusive member of staff to help with positioning. Another midwife available to do a check that was due by my local midwife team.

This is a gift of a service but sadly under threat of closure if not utilised more. I hear the natural birth experience here is great. The only risk is if they are short staffed they have to close and then you'd be transferred to RD&E, where no partners can stay overnight (this is a really big deal, as a new mum needs to express colostrum to feed one's baby and this requires two hands, which newborn also needs) - avoid at all costs... :( !