"Birth at Broome Hospital"

I wanted to start by raving about Broome Hospital and their services throughout our pregnancy. From coming into the service through the MGP program all the way through to leaving we had a great experience.

Our midwife Jo through the MGP program was incredible, she had a lovely nature and helped us to not only feel calm but informed of our choices throughout our journey. As a same sex couple we never felt discriminated against or made to feel uncomfortable. We also completed the online positive birthing program (based out of Bunbury) which was incredible to have access to this information and made us feel empowered throughout pregnancy. To be able to complete this program from the comfort of our couch online meant it was accessible for me and my partner.

During the birth my wife was supported with the birth of her choice whilst also feeling assisted by the medical team. At the time the birthing suites were being renovated so Jo tried her best to block the light in the room we had to use. We were able to use the wireless continous monitoring which meant my wife was able to labour mostly in the bathroom which was dark, had our candles, music and the shower. Jo was consistently present but it felt like it was just there and she was only around when we needed her! Another midwife in the MGP program was Tegan, she was incredible and assisted us with some choice making during labour. We decided to an epidural would be helpful which unfortunately failed a few times however the nursing and medical team kept us informed and tried their best to keep my wife comfortable during the process. On examination Jo identified a strange position of our baby it turned out he was mento-posterior which meant we needed to go for a caesarian section. This option was not enforced on us and we felt we had choices throughout the experience.

We had the incredible Ruth complete the caesarian with the assistance of Jade. The two Alex's were present and helped us both to feel very calm as well as nursing staff who took photos for keepsakes. We had music in the theatre room which helped us feel relaxed and Ruth asked if I wanted to announce the sex which was very thoughtful and made me feel part of the process too.

The whole experience of after birth care was also incredible. I was also attempting to breastfeed which was supported by the MGP and hospital midwives. They helped us with positioning and having successful breastfeeding experiences.

My only criticism is the day before labour commenced when being induced my wife was given a sandwich with cold ham in it which you are encouraged to avoid throughout the whole pregnancy and no other options we given. The other thing would be for birthing rooms to have the option to change the lighting so it could be dark. I understand space is an issue but the ability to stay with my wife especially while I was co-feeding would have been great. I am aware of other WACHS sites where the partner can stay.

MGP is an incredible program we felt very lucky to be a part of and would encourage anyone in Broome birthing to go through it.

Thanks though to all staff at Broome Hospital you are all wonderful!