"Excellent maternity services."

Anything else?

I visited the Sharoe Green unit in March to deliver my son and had heard different stories so was unsure what to expect. The staff were extremely helpful and treated me and my husband with the utmost respect, referring back to my birth plan to ensure my wishes were followed as much as possible including the use of gas and air and a pool birth. Even though I was screaming for an epidural at one point the midwife gently and calmly talked me out of it as per my wishes and I'm so glad she did as I had exactly the pain relief I wanted and all I needed was a bit of a pep talk! I was never left unattended, the midwife sat by the pool and let me labour in my own time whilst being encouraging and supportive and dimmed the lights and put the radio on to make it a calming atmosphere which really helped to relax us both. In the early hours a new midwife appeared to take over and they did the handover in my presence so I felt included and not just another patient. Had a rough emergency delivery with shoulder dystocia and was suddenly met by a room full of doctors and extra midwives whilst they wrestled him out and revived him. Afterwards they took the time to go through what happened And explained it fully which helped my understanding and eased any panic I was feeling. I was then moved onto the maternity ward for 2 nights and had my own room. Facilities were spotless and I was grateful of some quiet time after an all night labour. They have a tea and toast station which you can use 24 hours and midwives will check on you intermittently. One thing I would say is that if you need them, you must press your buzzer! I thought that it was only for emergencies so was reluctant to use it but they are so busy that they just don't have the time to pop in and see you any more than they already do and if you don't buzz for them they won't know. I was left for 6 hours after I arrived and expected someone to show me how to breastfeed but no one came so I had to just try it for myself. Later on I buzzed for a midwife to check I was doing it right and they were more than happy to help so if you need help, ask! Also another minor complaint I went all day without food as they didn't know I hadn't eaten but once I asked I was brought a cold tea at 6pm. Again, you must ask if you need something and they will try their best to help you as quickly as possible with no fuss. Food by the way was delicious. Was worried about the impersonal nature of a hospital birth but had such a wonderful experience I would not hesitate to recommend the Sharoe green unit to anyone. I can honestly say I was one of those strange women who enjoyed the experience! Special thank you to my midwife who had a lovely warm friendly nature but was also very professional and you could tell knew her stuff. 10/10.