"Post natal care unacceptable"

Baby number 2 delivered at DMH, after extensive discussions with management as a result of unacceptable treatment with baby 1, which made us reluctant to use DMH again. Care in labour this time was excellent - probably because it was a natural and fast labour, not the failed induction we experienced with number 1. However.... baby was undiagnosed footling breach (life threatening), despite Mum being under Consultant care and numerous examinations. Baby was half-delivered on way to emergency c-section, so eventual c-section delivery was necessarily brutal, but well executed, no complaints. However, post-natal unit was apparently busy ish (although we saw a lot of staff who didn't appear to be that busy...). Mum suffered cellulitis and was in severe pain after the complicated delivery, but was told after 2 days that if she didn't vacate the bed and go home, the unit would be closed & it would be her fault. Doctor on the ward advised not going home yet. Also, at a time of confusion about the prescription of codeine for pain relief in breast feeding mothers, Dr on ward prescribed high dose of ibuprofen for pain relief, midwife was unfamiliar with the dose, refused to administer, and accused Mum of tampering with her chart. Mother still in post natal depression 12 months later. Advice: if you can guarantee a straightforward delivery and home in 24 hours, it;s fine. But if you need sophisticated care, avoid.