Supportive midwives make a real difference

Supportive midwives make a real difference

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My wife has just given birth to our first child. I was a little worried, as I had heard horror stories in the press about maternity services – we even considered using a private midwife. However, I am pleased we didn't do this as the service we received from both the community midwives and hospital staff was outstanding.

I could not fault a single aspect of it – all of our contact was positive and supportive.

We had planned a home birth, which everyone happily supported and encouraged. However, when Honey put in an appearance she was eight days early, so we went to the hospital.

We were keen on a home birth as we thought it would be more relaxed for my wife, so having to go to hospital was a little daunting. Fortunately we need not have worried as the hospital was again outstanding. The delivery suites and wards were clean, modern, well staffed and well served by amenities. The staff were friendly and helpful, particularly the midwives and nurses. We always found there was someone on hand to help with questions and the midwives were great at supporting my wife in breastfeeding.

We even had some contact with a consultant and a registrar, in addition to the midwives and nurses, as there were some small complications late in the delivery. Even these contacts were positive, albeit brief.

They came to deliver Honey as quickly as possible, and then moved on. This was not a problem, as our midwife was always there and we never felt abandoned.

Our follow-up care over the past week has been fantastic and at the right level.

All in all, it was a very positive experience from start to finish and one no family should be concerned about going through.

Simon, Cambridgeshire

This is an edited version of a story on patientopinion.org.uk