"Maternity services and follow up"

I gave birth to a baby girl in June this year, and I would like to thank maternity services at wishaw. My community midwife Ashley was super and my hospital midwife Hannah was a great support throughout my labour, along with the rest of the staff on duty that night and the days after. 

I did attempt breast feeding and found the support overall disappointing. Staff within the hospital were good, however all gave different information which was at times confusing and overwhelming. I contacted the out of hours breast feeding support number at a time of great distress for myself and my 4 day old daughter and I was less than happy with the response I received. The individual was not supportive or encouraging and actually had a bit of attitude, not what a new first time mother in time of need would expect. This led me to giving up breast feeding. I do feel if during this call I was offered more support, and reassurance I may have been able to continue breast feeding. I also did not receive a follow up phone call in the following days after contacting the out of hours service which I would have expected.  

I have also been disappointed with GP services. My 6 week check up was a 5 minute telephone call, asking if I thought everything was normal and what contraception I wanted to start. I would have expected an examination as I had 2nd degree tears requiring stitches. I have now had to contact the GP for an appointment due to additional complications that could have been picked up if I had received a face to face appointment. 

Overall my experience was positive however tainted with some negative elements that I do feel should be highlighted to be improved on in the future.