"Giving birth"

I came in to the maternity unit at the BGH to be induced and then to deliver my daughter. I was nervous about the balloon induction, but the staff were really kind and supportive, allowing me to have gas and air and talking me through the process. It was comfortable and much less frightening than I thought. I was able to go home overnight before coming back to have my waters broken. Once labour started I was able to labour in my own, then get into the pool for as long as I warned. Staff were so kind, working around contractions to look after me, and only making themselves known when absolutely essential. When the pain became too much they quickly arranged for an epidural which was delivered professionally and kindly by the fantastic anaesthetist. Much more comfortable, I was able to enjoy labouring (the dose was just what I wanted-took away the worst of the pain but left function and some sensation). When it came time to push I was guided and supported by two lovely midwives who encouraged me and enabled me to labour in the position I wanted. I felt so in control of my choices and experiences throughout that the whole process was magical. Thank you to all the staff who helped us have such a wonderful day preparing to meet, and then delivering, our daughter.