"Exceeded my expectations."

My experience at Southend Mat unit was for my second child - I had previously been under Broomfield in Chelmsford which is a great hospital, and had my baby at a Cottage Hospital run only by midwives in Maldon, both were absolutely wonderful. I had heard many stories about Southend and was petrified to say the least as my first pregnancy and labour had left me with fond memories. However, my scans were carried out professionally, and were very informative. Unfortunately, I did have my third scan cut short as there was a staffing issue. Labour ward was literally empty when I went in to have my waters checked, which I must admit was far more in depth than previously but I guess they have to carry out more checks in Southend. Went back a few hours later and was desperate for a pool, only one (of the two) was working and I was very lucky to get it. As it was my second child I had my baby naturally in around 2 1/2 hours. My midwife Libby was wonderful, the midwives I met after were lovely, I was fed, looked after, and felt at ease there. I felt no pressure to leave soon after and was offered lunch but left just before they came round with it! All in all it was an equally enjoyable experience and I feel very lucky to have been looked after by lovely staff. Which includes my midwife throughout my pregnancy too! :)