I gave birth to my first child at UCLH (consultants led unit) in March 2010. When I arrived I was only slightly dilated, so I was advised to go home for few hours. However when I explained that I lived quite far, they let me stay. I then requested an epidural which was provided quite quickly. The midwife was with me almost all of the time and she was absolutely great. She was very caring and professional. I finally gave birth after 21 hours (forceps delivery) with a great team in theatre. I was looked after many people during my stay and all of them were amazing. I will be eternally grateful for their hard work. However, I spent the whole following day waiting for the pediatrician to assess my boy. I waited and waited and waited and nobody arrived. So I had to stay for another night. I cried for the whole night. I really really wanted to go home. I was exhausted after long labour (no sleep for 2 nights straight) and I needed someone to help me with my baby. As much as I loved being on consultants led department and later in EGA birth centre, I was disappointed being left in a bay in postnatal department. I understand that they are really busy there, but staff was indifferent at best. When I said that I wanted to be released anyway, they said that birth of my child will not be registered and that I will not be able to get a birth certificate. It only added to my anxiety and I cried even more (I know hormones....). So, 5 stars for both birth departments 2 stars for postnatal department (well, it was clean).
"Complicated birth, but looked after by great team"
About: University College Hospital University College Hospital London NW1 2BU
Posted via nhs.uk
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