"Treated with respect and dignity"

I've recently given birth at 37+1 weeks. I had a very difficult pregnancy with severe hyperemesis throughout and multiple hospital admissions for dehydration and sickness (around 18 admissions, my first being at 5 weeks pregnant). I have autism and find hospitals extremely difficult to be in, as well as being away from my 6-year-old daughter.

Every single admission I was treated with respect and dignity. The staff were aware of what I found difficult and made sure everything I was told was explained thoroughly. My midwife (Fiona), WREN midwife (Ditte), and obstetrician (Helen) were always there to answer any questions, reassure me, and make sure I was getting the treatment I needed.

Things were put in place so I didn't have to go through triage every time I needed treatment. I had extra scans to ensure my little lady was growing well (my first had low birth weight). I could stay on the delivery suite after birth, as I had an extremely traumatic experience on the postnatal ward in 2018, resulting in severe PTSD and anxiety.

After birth, it was found that I had very high blood pressure, which I was treated promptly for. It was checked multiple times when I was in the community, and when it was high, I was sent back to the ward I stayed on for hyperemesis. There, I was seen quickly by the obstetrician to have my medication adjusted and blood tests done.

My little girl had jaundice, which she needed double light therapy for. I was kept informed about each step in her treatment, given the chance to ask questions, and she was checked regularly and observed until she was ready to be discharged.

Everyone went above and beyond to ensure the pregnancy went as smoothly as possible. I cannot think of anything more that could have been done to support me. Thank you, everyone—keep up the amazing work!