"The birth of my daughter"

I was a week overdue and was booked in for a scan in Aberdeen, however that morning I had started to have contractions and my waters broke. Peterhead health centre were able to fit me in there for a scan and I was assessed by a midwife who said that although I was only 3cm dilated, my cervix was very stretchy and given I was fairly quick with my 1st baby and the fact that we stayed in Ellon that we would be admitted. Due to Covid-19 my husband had to wait in the car up until this point. 

Josey the student midwife showed us into the lovely moonlight suite and made us feel welcome and relaxed. She was very attentive and helped me get my TENS machine started and chatted to my husband and I. 

Later once labour progressed, Wendy another midwife introduced herself. She requested to assess me on the bed but once I moved to the bed I felt the urge to push, so she helped me into the bath, gave me gas & air and guided me through the remainder of my labour. Our little girl was born under 30 mins later. 

Both Wendy and josey were calm and relaxed throughout, and made sure my husband was included as much as possible which helped me to remain focused. 

I had been apprehensive about the afterbirth since I’d had a traumatic experience previously however they listened to my past experience and explained what would happen this time to avoid a repeat event and I had a much more pleasant experience. 

Following the birth we were made comfortable and checked on regularly but were given plenty time for skin to skin and to bond. Feeding assistance was also offered. We were able to go home 6hrs after her birth.