"Fantastic birth experience at Stafford hospital"

I gave birth to my first son in February 2013 at Stafford hospital and want to sing the praises of the staff during what was a tricky labour and delivery.

My husband and I had been on a tour of the unit so were familiar with the surroundings and set up beforehand. When we went into labour there were a few complications which meant we couldn't follow our birth plan as closely as we would have liked but the midwives listened to my husband's wishes (I wasn't really with it to back him up! ) and respected them while also making sure that medically me and baby were safe.

During the difficult period after birth the consultant and team who worked on me were amazingly reassuring and just got on with it - we had total confidence in their roles and abilities. They allowed us to stay in the delivery room for the day while I recovered and until I felt strong enough to move which I was eternally grateful for (not to mention the endless cups of tea! ).

The team on the ward for my first night as a mum were wonderful and supportive - just the right balance of advice and help but not too much interference.

Discharge was swift and comprehensive and we felt completely confident of the postnatal support network available.

We really hope to be able to have our second (and third...) baby in Stafford hospital in the future and this is testament to all staff on the unit.