"I would not hesitate to use this maternity..."

What I liked

Labour and birth can be a frightening experience for first-timers such as myself. I found the staff in the delivery suite and the maternity wards to be kind, supportive and reassuring throughout. I was unlucky enough to have a very long and painful early labour; although I could not be admitted to the delivery suite at this stage, when I had reached a point where I needed reassurance, I was dealt with quickly and with understanding, and proactive decisions were made with my wishes taken into account. On my return when I was in established labour, the midwives were simply lovely: good-humoured and patient, and always professional. I believe that having my baby here was the best experience I could have hoped for.

After the delivery, I needed further surgery. This was accomplished in a low-key way so as not to unnecessarily panic anyone, and was completed in a timely fashion. I felt fully included in any decisions throughout. Everyone in theatre was professional, relaxed and made me feel safe.

On the maternity ward, where I stayed for a further two days and nights, I could not have asked for better care. Nothing was too much trouble, even help with breastfeeding in the middle of the night.

My baby son, my husband and I are all so grateful to the staff who could not have been more fantastic.

What could be improved

The temperature on the wards (on some of the hottest days of the year!) was tropically hot and made it difficult to keep Baby at a safe temperature.

Anything else?

It was clear that the staff were somewhat overstretched on the maternity ward. They did everything they could to manage everyone's needs, but it was obvious that the hospital was considerably understaffed. The midwives deserve extra credit for managing as they did despite this.