New mum thanks amazing midwives who helped her during difficult labour
A UHDB colleague who gave birth to her first child at the Trust has thanked the team of medics who she said delivered a ‘VIP experience’ when her dream labour plan “got turned upside down.”
Ali Naylor and her husband Will have shared their birthing story to highlight the ‘invaluable support’ midwives offered when things didn’t go to plan. They hope to raise awareness, provide reassurance and express their thanks to the team who delivered baby Rupert safely.
Ali, who works as a physiotherapist at Florence Nightingale Community Hospital, said pregnancy “wasn’t her favourite” but that she always felt reassured by the community midwives and their experience and wisdom.
After going 10 days past her due date Ali was booked into RDH for an induction.
After discussing her birth preferences with the team, some of her plans “went out the window” but she said all decisions were made were best for her and the baby.
Ali said: “Everyone offered so much flexibility and compassion for my husband despite certain visiting rules. It made us feel really at ease when it could have been quite an anxious time.”
After a few hours in labour Ali was examined by a doctor who suggested that they move to a caesarean.
Ali said each part of the process was explained to her which helped calm her during the procedure, which was unplanned.
She said: “I am someone that likes to know what’s happening and why, but this made me feel like a person and not a patient, putting my mind at ease.
“I never thought I would have to have surgery, or a c-section. I had prepared myself for a beautiful natural birth without pain, but rather effort. I was so up for it. Turns out all of that turned upside down and I can’t be more grateful for the NHS and for the fabulous staff at UHDB”.
Despite Ali’s concerns and the speed in which her plans changed, she said everything seemed “smooth and professional” and she was talked through every single step.
She said: “Theatre and surgery was such a positive experience for us. All I’ve done is tell people how amazing it was. My first experience as a patient, with a wrist band and a cannula and my husband Will’s first time in scrubs!”
On July 9, Ali gave birth to healthy baby boy Rupert, who weighed 8lb 15oz.
The new mum said her exceptional experience continued on the ward and that the support and assistance given was invaluable. Breastfeeding support was also welcomed by Ali, who labelled support worker Julie, her “angel in the night” after she helped her at 3.30am.
Sadly, while Ali and Rupert remained in hospital Ali’s father’s funeral was due to take place, but even then, the team offered help and support.
She said: “Unfortunately my father’s funeral was on the Wednesday while Rupert and I were still inpatients. I was able to leave the hospital for it while a friend looked after Rupert. Everyone was so supportive during an emotional time, and it allowed us to have a good day giving my dad a good send off.”
After finally returning home as a family of three on July 14, Ali said she has reflected on her journey and really appreciated all the invaluable support she received.
Ali added: “We’ve been told how well we’ve been doing with breast feeding since leaving hospital, and how calm Rupert is. So much of that is down to the midwives and support workers. I want to show my absolute gratitude and forever thanks to all the staff involved in our journey.
“I was lucky enough to see Claire and Suzanne a few days after birth, and I told them they will never be just a midwife that was involved in our hospital care. They will always be a part of Rupert’s story now.
“Midwives are awesome and what a great profession it is, with so many different skills and avenues.
“I never doubted UHDB as a place where I would choose to be a patient. Even though my birth story wasn’t what I planned or particularly hoped for, UHDB really did deliver in every way and more.”
If you have had a positive birth at UHDB we would love to hear your story, contact uhdb.communications@nhs.net