"Birth at the Royal Infirmary Edinburgh"

I had my son in December 2021, starting in the midwife led unit at Simpson Maternity and moving to the labour suite as complications developed.

Things started well and I found the midwife led unit absolutely lovely, with the one exception that the birth pool was out of action. I felt safe and calm in the room and the midwives brought tea and toast. My birth plan was read and followed as far as was possible, with midwives guiding me on interventions and pain relief as well as being very encouraging when I hit a few really difficult and low points. However I was in labour for a very long time and as a result I ended up with a forceps delivery, which was my worst nightmare before I went into labour, and at the time I was so frightened.

The critical thing for me, that helped what could have been a really traumatic birth be actually fine was the staff. At all times I felt respected, listened to and cared for, in particular by my two midwives (shift change!). The doctor who finally delivered my son was also incredible. We had a follow up appointment a few weeks later with him where he explained what had happened and why which also made a huge difference to how I felt about the birth.

On the ward after the birth all the staff were again lovely, patient and helpful, but I’ll be honest, I think they were short staffed and were not always available when needed for example in the night. I think more staff to help with simple tasks such as passing the baby for women who couldn’t get out of bed, bringing tea and water, and showing how to do basics like change nappies would have made a big difference and keeps midwives a bit freer to help with things like breastfeeding or medical concerns.

Overall I think I had a very positive experience in difficult circumstances, especially as covid restrictions were in place again at the time. I know the NHS is under huge pressure but I am hugely grateful to those who delivered my son for their kindness and professionalism.