Mum thanks her ‘amazing midwives’
Instead, Kayleigh’s daughter, Jessica, came into the world on Wednesday, April 22, weighing 7lb 8oz, at the birthing centre.
Now back home, Jessica is – in the words of mum – doing “fab” and Kayleigh has thankedstaffforprovidingthe relaxing birthing experience she had hoped for.
“I would absolutely recommend it to other mums. I actuallyenjoyedtheexperienceand whenIlookbackonit,itiswith only happy feelings,” she said.
“My community midwife knew how much I wanted to givebirthinanon-hospitalsettingandsherecommendedthe birthingcentre.Iwasabletogo there and have a look and I absolutely loved it. Straightaway, Ifeltasenseofcalmandrelaxation and felt at home.
“It’s only a little thing but, given coronavirus, it was also reassuring that you don’t have togothroughthehospitaltoget to the centre, just through one set of double doors.”
When she went into labour a few weeks later, Kayleigh’s mother, Michelle Watson, went with her to the birthing centre, where she planned a water birth.
“IwasexaminedassoonasI arrived and then they took me to a lovely, large room where I could keep mobile and progress my labour,” Kayleigh continued. “There was a comfysofaforMumtositonwhileI wasonthebirthingballorleaning on the bed and I was able to have my own music playing.
“It was so peaceful, I was fallingasleepbetweencontractions. When I was transferred tothebirthingpoolroomitwas justasnice.Themidwiveswere amazing throughout. They were in PPE, but I wasn’t worried as I knew that meant they had taken care of all the necessary precautions.”
Sheila Ford, Head of Midwifery at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, commented: “It is a real boost to hear from mums, like Kayleigh, who really appreciate the outstanding care they provide.”