"When things went wrong we were seen to immediately"

I had my daughter just before Christmas 2012 by emergency c-section. We had some complications due to foetal distress so I ended up with a general anaesthetic and my partner wasn't allowed in the room.

From what I can remember of my labour, the midwives were lovely. When things went wrong we were seen to immediately and things moved very fast. The midwife who had been with me throughout my labour stayed with me the whole time whilst I was rushed into theatre. I was absolutely terrified but she made me feel like I had someone who really cared for me. I think her name was Irene.

I really don't remember much after delivery but my partner assures me that we received the highest quality of care.

Once we were put up to the post natal ward, I was in a room with 3 other mothers and their babies. I didn't mind this at all. I was so groggy from the anaesthetic that the lovely midwives really helped me care for my new baby. They took her to feed her and let me sleep. We also had great breast feeding advice and were shown how to bath our wee one. By Christmas morning I was up and on my feet and starting to feel a lot more human, and all I wanted to do was go home to see all my family and introduce our gorgeous wee girl to everyone. I was advised to stay in another day but there was no stopping me, and the midwifes agreed that since I had managed a shower and plenty of food. Since it was Christmas My daughter and I were both given a small wrapped gift from the hospital. A lovely soap set for me and a teddy/comforter for my daughter. Everyone was happy and overall my experience was great.

The only gripe I have was, as we arrived at the unit at about 2 am we had to gain access to the building via a side door which is understandably locked and operates a buzzer system. I appreciate that the labour ward is very busy but we were standing outside for 10 minutes before any one answered. I was in agony with my waters leaking and getting very nervous that I was going to have baby outside the hospital. Eventually someone let us in from the children's ward as no other ward were answering our buzzers.

Next baby is due in September. And we have had excellent care so far. Due to see my Consultant at 36 weeks to decide on delivery plan ( VBAC or ELCS). Looking forward to meeting our next wee bundle. Thank you Forth Valley Midwives.