I had my baby at the LGH last year, it was a very rushed and quick labour. The midwives at the pre-assessment and labour ward were absolutely fantastic, they were calm and caring despite the fact the labour all happenend in a bit of a rush. The maternity ward was very busy and I did not see many midwives, it was my first baby and I was not sure what to do - did I leave him to go to the loo/shower, etc. I only saw people to be offered pain relief, the 'breast feeding' helpers did not really help and seemed very quick to offer formula as an option. The shower that I used was dirty and full of old toiletrie cases, also there was nothing to 'wipe up' after a shower, which made it difficult not to leave the shower in more of a mess. I had a room to myself which was lovely but I think it is awful that partners/husbands can not stay, I think this is very sexist in this day and age. I understand that some people may not want the childs father there, but to have the option if we do want them there would be really good. Looking after a newborn baby when you have just been through a traumatic labour is very hard on you own - please let the other parent stay too!! I asked to be discharged at 2.00pm the next day (the staff seemed quite suprised by this - but I could give myself paracetomel at home, and I felt this was all they were doing for me.) We asked many times throughout the day about how long we would be waiting - and were told by many different members of staff 'we'll be with you in a few minutes'. I understand the ward is busy, but why say this when you know it is going to be hours! By 11pm at night we were all throroughly fed up, but still had to watch two DVD's on how to care for our baby and about not shaking your baby. The first DVD player did not work .... I think the DVD's are a waste of time - after 48 hours of no sleep I did not pay attention to either of them, as I just wanted to get out! Please do not make promises you can't keep, about when you will be discharged, and get some more staff if the wards are so busy!
"Labour ward fab, after care not so great"
About: Leicester General Hospital Leicester General Hospital Leicester LE5 4PW
Posted via nhs.uk
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