I had my first child Aiden in 2016 at Hutt Hospital and my second Niven at Te Awakairangi Birthing Centre and the two experiences after birth are vastly different between the two facilities. I was more relaxed at the birthing centre than I was at the hospital (granted - my body knew what to do) but I knew I was in good hands since my partner could stay with me. He wasn’t as relaxed at the hospital. The rooms were spacious and quiet.
The meals were fantastic - top of the class! I didn’t expect such awesome food! I was lucky and grateful that the duty overnight midwife helped me by holding my baby while I got a wee nap.
I was briefly at the birthing centre before my third child arrived but it didn’t work out and I knew that not all things go to plan. I was grateful for their assistance anyway. I am saddened to learn about its potential closure and I hope that we can find a way to keep it open for women like me who need a separate space away from distractions such as housework, older children to give birth in a calm atmosphere.
The meals were fantastic - top of the class! I didn’t expect such awesome food! I was lucky and grateful that the duty overnight midwife helped me by holding my baby while I got a wee nap.
I was briefly at the birthing centre before my third child arrived but it didn’t work out and I knew that not all things go to plan. I was grateful for their assistance anyway. I am saddened to learn about its potential closure and I hope that we can find a way to keep it open for women like me who need a separate space away from distractions such as housework, older children to give birth in a calm atmosphere.
