"I would strongly recommend choosing pregnancy care..."

What I liked

I gave birth to my baby boy in May 2012. I had complications throughout my pregnancy and during labour - the hospital provided professional care throughout.

My son is healthy and thriving.

What is more, the midwifes and doctors at the post natal ward [where you go after giving birth] gave me great support and assurances around the topic of breastfeeding so now, more than a month after giving birth, I enjoy breasfeeding my child without problems.

If you suffer from any anxieties, openly to remind the doctors and nurses/midwifes who are assisting you, or ask your partner to do that. Even if your emotional/mental health needs are noted in the yellow book.

I would strongly recommend choosing pregnancy care and giving birth at Whittington.

Thanks

Anything else?

Keep asking questions if you or your partner have them, because the staff at Whittington are knowledgeable and helpful.

My baby had a hearing test at the post natal ward, I think it is important and would suggest you agree for that too.

I spoke to my baby and held his hand when any examinations were done and it helped to keep him calm - I'd suggest that to any new mum because this helps the baby stay calm.

On a completely personal note, I'd like to share that I asked the family to visit only upon our return to home from the hospital and didn't take a phone when going to labour (my husband had it on him). So the baby, my husband and I avoided being "hassled" by a crowd around us and hundreds of calls from the family. It really helped us to focus on the baby, talk about our experience, and have the time and intimacy when talking to hospital staff. You don't have to agree but think about it.