"The Birth Of My Baby"

I recently arrived at the RAH Triage for reduced foetal movements and waited to be seen to get some peace of mind. We waited and were taken to a room to be put on monitors, the midwives were all very reassuring and supportive during this time.

After being monitored for a while they noticed that baby was becoming distressed and his heart rate was going up and down. Again, the midwives were all very supportive and made me feel comfortable in this stressful moment, it seemed all of a sudden that the room filled with people and I was examined, hooked up to machines, cannula etc and I was feeling very anxious as I didn’t know what was happening.

The staff made sure I knew what was going on each step and let me know they were doing what was best for me and baby, an emergency c section was advised and they went over everything to ensure I was happy. The baby started to settle and so the c section was not required at that time, the midwives let me know that I would be induced and ensured I was comfortable going through each step from my waters being broken, hormone drip, epidural etc and all were very attentive during this time not only for me but for my partner and mum who were with me. For example, even just bringing a wee cup of tea for my partner and mum.

I was in labour for a while, getting regular contractions, when they noticed another drop in baby’s heart rate and again was being closely monitored, it came to the decision that a c section was the best option and so I was prepped quickly and again reassured and explained to by staff exactly what was going to happen. All staff were attentive, supportive, comforting, open and respectful.

I was wheeled round into theatre and the staff there were all cheery, chatty and made me feel very comfortable in such a stressful situation. Again I was spoken through every step of the way until I was put to sleep as it was most comfortable option for myself. I woke to see my partner holding my beautiful baby boy and was greeted by the amazing midwives and team that helped him come into the world.

In recovery again all the staff were extremely helpful from taking baby at night for a cuddle to allow me to rest and answering my questions at any time I required their help. I cannot recommend the maternity unit at RAH enough, I went through 3 different swaps in staff shifts and every single person was a credit to the job role, I am so grateful for being in such a wonderful environment.

Thank you all at RAH Maternity x