"I would rate my experiences at St Mary's..."

What I liked

I attended the EPU when 6 weeks pregnant with some light bleeding. The reception staff were helpful and sympathetic and I was scanned that morning. Unfortunately the scan was not conclusive and showed an underdeveloped sac with no fetal pole. A blood test was taken to measure my hormone levels and I was sent home. After this I was seen 4 more times, to measure hormones and for further scans and each time I have to say I was treated with dignity and respect and found the staff to be patient and sympathetic during what for us was a horrible and stressful time. Sadly I miscarried at 8 weeks, but I really can't thank the staff enough for their help.

I am now 8 months pregnant and am planning to give birth at St Mary's. I had a bleed at 16 weeks and once again went to the EPU where I was seen straight away and, again, I was very happy with the care I received, especially as I was extremely anxious given my previous experience.

What could be improved

I have had a couple of planned appointments with my current pregnancy where I have had to wait for up to 2 hours in antenatal. However I still believe overall standards at the hospital to be very high.

Anything else?

I have had a tour of the birth centre and was impressed by both the facilities and the midwives who showed us round. The emphasis on using movement and positioning to reduce the need for pain relief is very welcome.DignityBlood testReception staffAppointmentsOpening hoursPatient care