"Pregnancy support from GPP and community midwives"

I contacted St Austell GPP in the morning. At 7 weeks pregnant as a first time Mum I was experiencing extreme nausea. I explained I was looking to speak with a GP or midwife. As I had not been assigned a midwife I was advised it would be a GP.

I received a call back from a GP later that evening. It was made abundantly clear to me it was the end of the day when I began to say what the issue was and was interrupted by them asking what I was hoping to gain from this interaction.

I explained I was hoping to obtain some anti-emetics as I work full time in a very active role and really struggling. I was advised that as I am not vomiting they were reluctant to prescribe any medication which I appreciate, to a degree.

I also had a further 3 small queries I was hoping to gain some reassurance/information from as have been unable to find the answers for these on the forums/websites I have been utilising before contacting the GPP. The GP appeared irritated and dismissed my concerns saying they were all normal.

I became extremely upset on the phone as it was apparent they were at the end of what I imagine was a stressful day and I felt they did not have the patience or time to provide some comforting advice for someone in a vulnerable position. I was told I appeared extremely distressed and may benefit from some input from the mental health practitioners.

I was so upset I consented to this as genuinely open to any support at such an emotional and frightening time. I was made to feel like it was all in my head and I was nothing more than an irritation to the end of their working day.

I got off the phone and was inconsolable - I then found online the maternity advice line. I reluctantly rang this number and was put through to the loveliest midwife called Gail. I was distraught at what I had experienced and felt like it was all in my head.

Gail was so patient and we went through each concern and she gently explained how this was normal and the reasons why. She completely reassured me and was so kind and gentle at such a frightening time. I cannot praise this advice line anymore and to have that service for me was invaluable as I am yet to be assigned a midwife.

Thank you Gail for restoring my faith at such an uncertain time. I hope the GPP may also learn from this situation and just be aware how their manner over the phone had such a huge effect on me at such a frightening time.