"So far from my birth plan but the best experience."

Throughout majority of my pregnancy I was extremely lucky and had no issues or complications. Until near the end of my pregnancy, when it was discovered I had cholestasis and would therefore need to be induced. 

I firstly felt a little disappointed as I has planned and been hoping for a community midwife led unit birth, however I fully accepted this was not possible. 

I had a 3 night stay in hospital prior to being induced. When i arrived on the labour ward for the induction it looked more homely than I imagined and I was welcomed with lots of friendly faces.

My waters were broken and the hormone drip was started just before a shift change. Both the midwife finishing and taking over my care were extremely kind and professional. I felt included in the handover which definitely contributed to me feeling in control of the situation. The midwife finishing shift had also called for my continuity student (she arrived in time for the shift change).

Having the student working along side the midwife was amazing, a familiar face, lots more encouragement and an extra pair of hands. Anyone who has the opportunity to be supported by a student, I would highly recommend taking the opportunity. 

My labour progressed fairly quickly and before long my baby boy was born. I opted for the injection to deliver my placenta however after over an hour of midwives and the consultant trying, it was decided I would require surgery to remove it. 

I was extremely nervous and upset being taken away from my baby to go to theatre, but theatre staff were just amazing throughout the whole process. 

The only regret i have is not taking note of the name of midwife who delivered my baby, as I would have loved to nominated her for a daisy award. She really did go above and beyond throughout the whole process. 

I can't thank all midwives, doctors and theatre staff enough for getting my baby here safely and looking after me. So extremely blessed!