"Midwives involved in labour were..."

What I liked

Midwives involved in labour were fantastic.

What could be improved

I visited my sister who was on the maternity ward. Birth was fine - she tried to breastfeed, couldn't and due to feeling under pressure in the surroundings decided to bottle feed. This is when the problems started - one nurse very against this and kept forcing my sister to try. My sister actually was terrified of this nurse doing her rounds!! Other staff told my sister of this woman's fearsome nature!!! My sister and husband felt like they were in prison!! Kept in for days. Worst of all my sister noticed a strange smell...3 days after the birth the staff then realised they had not sorted out the baby's belly button properly and it had started to become infected!!!!! My sister had an episiotomy and was not checked for the same amount of time. The total lack of professionalism, duty of care and lack of accountability frankly terrified me. I know maternity wards complain of lack of money and staff but this is no excuse. I am a teacher , have a large class, we can't afford TA support, I work long hours too BUT there is no way I could or would ever want to get away with a such a lack of professionalism or care.

Anything else?

My sister has no doubts in her mind - the next time she will have a home birth. The midwifes involved in her labour were wonderful - the aftercare was laughable. WE honestly feel that there was more risk and danger to her and the baby by her staying in the hospital then her being at home.

I would like to add that a few years ago a very close relative stayed in 2a/2b in Preston - neurological department. Their jobs were far more stressful but the service was amazing - they were total professionals and had socail intelligence - something else seriously lacking in maternity after care!!! The staff on the Sharoe Green Unit need to visit this department and see how to really run a ward!!!!

I am so disgusted - there will NEVER be an excuse for the behaviour or treatment witnessed by us all.