"I have just had my first baby ..."

What I liked

I have just had my first baby at Leighton hospital. The midwife who delivered my baby was fantastic. She was encouraging, positive and I felt entirely comfortable with her and the care she gave me and my baby. I was kept informed throughout the labour. The room was clean and comfortable with dimmed lights.

On ward 23 I recieved lots of support to establish breastfeeding and with all the things a first time mum finds tricky! The staff on the ward were friendly and supportive.

Ward 17- My baby had to spend some time on ward 17. I would like to say what amazing and dedicated staff there are on this ward. The whole experience was extremely positive at what was a very stressful time. The level of care given to the patients is superb. At all times I was kept informed about the treatments my baby needed. Every single nurse who worked with my daughter was kind caring and supportive. It must be a difficult and busy ward to work on and the staff deserve the upmost praise. The facilities on the ward were excellent with a parents room with tv, shower fridge and dining table for when you needed five minutes refuge.

What could be improved

Ward 23- HOW HOT!! The only thing I found difficult was the heat on the ward. It was far too warm.

Also perhaps a patient guide would be useful as I wasnt really given any tour/guidance. I wasnt made aware of shower/baths nor that you could put baby in the observation room whilst you grabbed a quick bath. Very useful to know! Plus after you have just given birth it is sometimes hard to take in what is being said to you! When transfered to the ward I think you need to be shown how nappies are to be changed whilst on the ward...and where things are kept in the ward to use. This could be in the guide?