"My new baby"

I gave birth at the QEII, after much of my labour at home. I had initially wanted a home birth due to my fear of hospitals and infection rates, so when I decided I needed an epidural it was a hard decision. However my fears were totally unfounded at QEII, everyone made sure I was comfortable, they were very caring, explained all my choices and made sure I understood them and during the long hours of contractions before I gave birth (my epidural was patchy) they were calm, reassuring and always there in the background, helping when necessary and giving us breathing space when not. The handover between shifts was smooth and I never felt neglected or alone, or worry about where they had gone.

After the birth, I was carefully washed and my tear stitched up, the nurses seemed to genuinely care about my state of being. We were offered tea & toast (bliss!).

I had to spend that night in hospital, not great on the comfort factor but I had a buzzer and was encouraged to use it as often as needed. The nurses always came within minutes, with a smile and helpful advice, helped me change baby's first nappy, winding, calming her when crying etc.. the buzzer felt like my lifeline. And I simply cannot praise them enough for helping establish breastfeeding. I would have given up for sure if it had not been for their tireless efforts that night and next day... followed by help and advice from my health visitor.

Although a hospital birth was not what I wanted initially, I am so pleased to be able to say I have no regrets and that it was a positive birth experience (despite the epidural not really working) so thank you QEII from our little family.