"The staff were exceptional"

I found out I was pregnant in July and registered to give birth at The Glasgow Royal Princess maternity. This was my 2nd birth. I had a difficult time with bleeding and haemorrhaging after my first born and was understandably anxious the same would happen again.  However, the consultant and midwife team put me at ease from my first appointment.  

As my pregnancy progressed, I was unwell at 24 weeks with migraines.  The staff at the maternity assessment unit were incredible, again, putting me at ease that baby was ok and quick to prescribe medication that would help. I was back in with a UTI and severe pelvic pain and lack of movement around 35 weeks and again, the maternity assessment unit couldn’t be more helpful. 

At 38 weeks, I noticed a lack of movement again and as I was only 2 days away from 39 weeks agreed to an induction. 

On being taken in to ward 73 to the birth of my child, the staff were excellent.  Always available and helpful when needed.  Checking in often and offering never ending support.  On the second night around 11pm I was starting to get very anxious as had been in pain all day with not much happening and my baby's heart rate was erratic so I was on the monitor for a long time.  Eventually I called the midwife and had a very emotional conversation.  She could not have been more supportive and kind.  She took me off the monitor immediately and offered me intermittent monitoring.  I was examined at this point by a lovely consultant who reassured me that it wouldn’t be too much longer.  I managed to relax and get some sleep.

I woke up at 1.30am with strong contractions.  On examination, I was 4cm.  The midwives were excellent and got me down to the labour suite within 30 mins.  However, by the time I got there, baby was well and truly on her way!!

Emma was the wonderful midwife who helped me deliver our little girl. From the second I met her, she kept me as calm as I could be.  I had a little issue getting stitches done post birth as I have previously experienced trauma.  Emma & Gillian were superb with helping me relax as much as possible.  They listened to my story with empathy and compassion and Gillian took the time to check in with me and talk me through the process. This helped immensely.  

The staff in the post natal ward were also exceptional.  

From start to finish, my experience with the Princess Royal Maternity was absolutely excellent. 

Not once did I feel cramped in the wards (despite there being 6 beds in a room).  The staff, despite clearly being well understaffed, were quick to come round if buzzed and always helpful.  

My only negative feedback is the food was awful.  We ended up spending a fortune on eating at the cafe or ordering from nearby establishments.