" King George hospital Essex - maternity ward care in 2004"

I gave birth to my son in december 2004 at king george's maternity ward, goodmayes, essex. I have to say that after 3 years, i am still angry at the inadequate care myself and other women on my ward received from the nursing staff.

I didn't complain at the time because i was just glad to 'get out of there' with a healthy new baby. Fortunately for the staff, it's a time when most people will forget about things, simply because this is supposed to be the best time of their lives.

After my son was born, i had trouble breastfeeding. I had severely cracked and bleeding nipples and feeding him was causing me excruciating pain. I asked for the help of the night duty nursing staff. I was told to 'get on with it, you've had 2 kids'. I was shocked and felt extremely vulnerable, having just had a baby and being totally in their care. I asked for milk which was refused. When i asked how i'm suppose to feed my baby the sister said "Well, with these of course". pointing to her breasts.

Further to this, i had the worst night's sleep of my life as i was kept awake by the nurses arguing. During one argument, again with the sister, I heard them swearing at each other over who had eaten more chocolates. Wholly inappropriate.

I am disgusted that what used to be a caring profession has resulted to this form of low level care. The nurses who looked after me at this time didnt seem to even have the basics when dealing with the public. It's certainly changed my opinion. Obviously, i know that not ALL nurses would condone such behavior, but in my experience of hospitals, I haven't met a nice, caring nurse yet.