"Such a positive experience and a great opportunity to debrief"

I gave birth in SWAH back in February 2022 and had a positive experience.

I was brought in for a planned induction which I was nervous about, but having had previous checkups in the Fetal Assessment Unit, I felt I had got to know some of the midwifes- and they were great! Having this continuity of care enabled me to relax prior to the birth and assured me that I was in safe hands.

After the birth, I imagine like many mums, I had a lot of blanks and questions I wanted answered. I felt like my mind had blocked a lot of it out, due to a very quick and traumatic birth.

After speaking to my health visitor about this, she informed me that I could speak with the maternity ward sister about my experience and have any questions answered that I wanted. She put me in touch with the Midwifery Sister, who very kindly agreed for me to come back to the hospital and have a chat with her.

I found this such a positive experience and a great opportunity to debrief on an experience that could have lead to postpartum mental health issues, had I not been given this opportunity.

I was not aware that this was possible to do beforehand, but really value it and think it should be offered to every mum- especially new mums. It would be great to see others taking this opportunity to debrief on such a huge event in their life.

I highly recommend this service, and that it be made known to other mums before they reach a point of having to ask for help.

I also want to praise the staff at SWAH maternity services- the care was brilliant during pregnancy and birth. This debrief is just testament to their care for patients and I really feel the trust would benefit from making this a permanent service that is offered to every mum before they leave hospital.