“Speaking up saved my baby’s life”

DURING MY first pregnancy, I spent a ridiculous amount of time imagining the perfect birth. I’d read the books, been to the antenatal classes and written the birth plan. My plan didn’t involve being induced at 42 weeks, the closure of the maternity ward nor being in the sole care of a no-nonsense agency midwife.

Innate people pleaser that I am, I resolved to be the perfect patient. But, after a few hours, I had a strong feeling that something was wrong. It’s hard to trust your instincts when it comes to

Charlotte Northedge found assertiveness in the most crucial of moments and, once she discovered her voice, she had much to say – as a novelist

medical matters, especially in the face of weary expertise. The midwife was convinced that I had a low pain threshold and just needed to try harder.

I was overwhelmed and at my most vulnerable. I didn’t want to make a fuss or question her judgment but, when I saw that the baby’s heart rate had dipped, any concerns about being a good patient evaporated. I insisted, calmly but firmly, that she find a doctor.

Finally, she called an obstetrician. Within minutes, I had a roomful of people around me. Not just the obstetrician, but another doctor, midwives and a group of medical students. Thankfully, 48 hours after I was induced, my son was delivered face up, which is why he was stuck. The obstetrician said it was extremely lucky that I spoke up when I did.

I’ve learned a lot from that feeling of powerlessness, and the experience of taking control. It inspired my debut novel – a thriller about a woman who is manipulated by a life coach. It has also motivated me to assert myself in difficult situations and, ultimately, to trust my instincts. If you don’t speak up for yourself, no one else will.

‘The House Guest’ by Charlotte Northedge (Harpercollins, £14.99) is out 13 May. See page 78