"Elective Caesarean Section"

I had a planned caesarean section for breech presentation & failed ECV. I attended the Royal Maternity Hospital in Belfast. This was my first baby & was understandably nervous. I was worried my birth experience would be adversely affected due to the nature of the delivery. Fortunately, it was quite the opposite. 

On attendance to the DPU we were made to feel at ease instantly. One of the health care assistants helped ease the anxiety with the lighting in the room & calming music prior to the operation. These simple actions were truly welcomed. During the surgery I had the kindest Consultant Anaesthetist, Dr Sykes. She talked me through what was happening at every stage of the delivery process. I felt very safe and comforted by her updates & reassurances. 

I was keen to breastfeed & I was worried that my mode of delivery would make this more difficult. However, there was immediate skin to skin contact following delivery and the theatre team helped me initiate breastfeeding whilst the operation was still ongoing. 

Even after the operation had finished, they allowed extra time to finish this initial feed and special bonding moment.

I will be forever grateful to the theatre team in RJMH and would like to say a big thank you from me and my family. They went over & above to ensure that the birth of my baby boy was special regardless of the circumstances.