"The fertility team are the most friendly..."
About: Queen Elizabeth Hospital (Gateshead) Queen Elizabeth Hospital (Gateshead) Gateshead NE9 6SX
Posted via nhs.uk
What I liked
The fertility team are the most friendly and caring staff I have ever come across. They treat you with respect and compassion at what can be a confusing time. Everthing is explained to you and the open evening is a very good idea. I'm very grateful to the team for the help they have given us.
What could be improved
I had indicated a preference for home birth at my initial booking in interview and the midwives were all positive, giving a balanced view of the risks. However at my appt at the QE the consultant gave me a 20 minute talk about how risky home births were and how I was risking my life and my babys life and potentially leaving my other children motherless. They presented no positive aspects to a home birth. I have had no problems with the births of my other two children and would always listen to medical advice. I was upset after leaving as I felt there was an insinuation that I was not a good mother for considering taking such a risk and there was no other reason for this attitude apart from personal opinion. I haven't made an official complaint, as I'm continuing my care at the QE but I would like other mothers to be ready for this sort of attitude. All other aspects of my care with community midwives and other QE appointments have been excellent.
Responses