"Maternity care"

My son was born 6 weeks ago, and I've never been so grateful for our NHS. 

The campaign about 'reduced fetal movements' is one we were aware of but never thought much about. If it wasn't for that information, the outcome could have been different for us.

We were in triage on 3 separate occasions with reduced movement. 3rd visit showed most of the amniotic fluid had disappeared & ctg appeared suspicious for some time. Induction was recommended. Not once did the hospital make us feel like we were wasting their time though. They took it seriously every time. The staff trusted that my instincts were real. It's unusual for fluid to disappear in 10 days since our previous scan (1st episode of reduced movement), there was no real reason to re-scan other than the feeling 'something wasn't right' but they did and never once made me think I was being paranoid/worrying over nothing. 

All the staff from triage, to antenatal, to labour ward were fantastic. I do remember one midwife spending considerable time talking through our worries regarding induction & assisted delivery which was invaluable and her honesty was hugely appreciated. 

It was clear the wards were busy and running on minimal staff, as are many of our hospitals these days, but it never compromised their individual care and they never complained about being buzzed for trivial worries (like the monitor beeping faster, or a sudden dire need of antacids!). 

Luckily we were discharged the same day baby was born, but I did note a big improvement in the staff-patient relationship since I was last in the same situation 8 years ago, in terms of being listened to, being kept informed (by midwives rather than medical staff....) and involved in my (and baby's) care. 

I am grateful for the positive experience and safe delivery of my son. Thank you.