"Fetal Medicine Unit great, ante-natal clinic can..."

What I liked

My first visit at Maternity services was end of June 2010 and my last visit was December 2010.

At my first ante-natal appointment a scan was booked for me as I was not sure how far along pregnant I was. The sonar technican discovered complications and I was seen by a specialist the next morning. The specialist at Fetal Medicine Unit explained very well what our options were. I was referred to a different hospital (Queen Charlotte) and thoroughly examined. After a small surgery I was monitored by the Consultant and she answered all my questions and I had loads as it was our first child and due to the complications I had not been on the "normal track" of seeing GP & ante-natal clinic midwives.

When I had "a show" and called labour ward and they gave me calm detailed guidance of what to do next.

The midwife who was there during labour (11 December 2010) was really calm and professional. I felt very secure and confident even though it took longer than the midwives had anticipated. After 1 hour of final pushing the doctors who were on duty came it put my feed into the stirrups... only after I panicked a bit they explained this is standard procedure and had nothing to do with complications.

What could be improved

The attitude of the post-natal midwives. I know they are busy but the mid-mives need to take into consideration that all women there have just given birth and are very fragile.

Also the ante-natal clinic services could be improved. A few times I had to wait a long time to be seen and felt like being a number in their system being processed instead of a patient with feelings. You have to take the appointment they have available not one that suits you as they are booked up weeks in advance.

Anything else?

I have talked to new mothers and they had similar experiences with post-natal care in other NHS hospitals.

Even though we did not need it I found it reassuring that St. Mary's has one of the best wards for premature babies.

My daughter and I enjoyed the baby massage course with Kate in March 2011.