Share review of Hinchingbrooke Hospital

Hinchingbrooke Hospital 2019-06-06 Person 4 5 0

I had a homebirth so wasn't on the labour ward. However the reason I have had homebirths with my last 2 babies is because I suffered trauma in hospital with my first. It later developed into PTSD and was diagnosed by a therapist 3 years after having my first baby. Due to this I put specific preferences in my birth plans as to reduce the risk of midwives triggering me whilst I am in the throws of labour and birthing my subsequent babies, a situation where I find it hard to trust anyone. When discussing my home birth with community midwife at home I asked for the midwife attending me during labour to not be wearing uniform. The uniform to me is associated with the control that was taken away by the midwives when I had my first baby. Having a homebirth was my way of taking it back and midwives wearing uniform can hinder the healing experience, not just for me but other women who have unfortunately had to endure such experiences. Except for that one issue I couldn't fault the care from the midwife, Hannah. She was respectful of both my body and space, for that I much appreciate. She left all decisions to me/us and explained everything. I'm not sure if she knew my history but she definitely helped make my second homebirth another amazing experience by leaving me to do my thing! There was also another midwife who was called out. I believe she was the first one contacted but then Hannah was called as she was closer and my births are quick (this one was 1 hour). She arrived after I had already had a physiological 3rd stage but she graciously congratulated us before leaving. I don't recall her name but it was around 3am on 18th April - I thank both midwives!