"I really felt like my wishes were respected."

I was under the care of the Glasgow Home birth team and had a really positive experience. It made a really big difference to always see the same midwife (Caroline) for my antenatal appointments, and to build up a relationship with her.

I had some risk factors and she was great at discussing things with me in a non-coercive and person-centred manner where I really felt like my wishes were respected. This meant that I'd been able to build my trust with her.

When I went into labour things didn't progress as quickly as they should (and my waters had gone at the start). Because of the trust and good relationship, and Caroline's approach I felt good about taking her advice to transfer into the hospital. She made sure that it was my choice to do it and I didn't feel coerced into moving away from my first choice birth plan. 

When I got home after the birth it was a relief to see familiar faces again for my post natal care. It was a big difference compared to the hospital where I'd seen so many different people. I was able to have a chat with Caroline and ask all the questions I needed to feel confident looking after my baby.

When I started showing signs of infection the midwife arranged for me to be seen at hospital, and explained her concerns to me. I felt very well looked after and really appreciated how well they exemplified person centred care. I felt trusted to make decisions, and felt that my opinion was respected and felt treated like an adult all through the process. This made a big difference to how I felt when things started to move away from the original plan. 

If I have any future births I would definitely want to be with the home birth team again.