Heartbeat: Mum praises birthing team for continuity of care
February 28, 2020
New mum Jemma Clarke has praised a new team of midwives who ensure women receive the same care throughout their pregnancy.
The 31-year-old became the first woman to give birth under the care of the Willow team, which were formed in August. Little Ky’Asha Clarke-Hunter was born in September at City Hospital and was delivered by midwives from the team.
She said: “It’s a fantastic service and I was pleased with my care during the later stages of my pregnancy, the birth and the aftercare. I noticed a difference straight away. Previously I’d seen several different midwives and had to keep repeating myself.
“When I was introduced to the Willow team, things changed very quickly. They held a coffee morning which I attended along with other pregnant women. They gave an excellent presentation about what to expect during labour and birth. I found the session invaluable and the advice was spot on. It was lovely to meet all the team and we got to speak to them about any concerns we had.
“When my waters broke Chloe, one of the midwives was by my side, whilst Ifrah took over during the induction and Kym Fitzpatrick was there for the birth. I felt I was in control, in a more relaxed atmosphere. They were understanding, considerate and experienced. They knew all the details about my birth plan so they could accommodate it.
“Having midwives there who are fully aware of your needs makes such a difference.” Ky’Asha spent six days in neonatal due to low oxygen levels affecting her breathing and Jemma also praised them for their care.
“They were amazing and I also received great advice from the breastfeeding team.”
Clare Williams, Team Leader for the Willow team, said: “Caring for women, and their babies before, during and after birth is both beneficial to the women and the midwives.
“Building a relationship in the antenatal period allows midwives to get to know the woman and her family well. Trust builds and the midwife has an understanding of the woman’s needs in labour and following the birth. The birth of Ky’Asha in September saw the start of the undeniable success of Willow team, 22 more births have followed, all attended by Willow team members.
“Midwives in the team are extremely happy with this new way of working. Plus, the feedback we’ve received from the women in our care proves that knowing your midwife for the whole pregnancy and birth journey is the gold standard of maternity care. It’s something we’re all proud to be a part of.”
The Cedar team, the second continuity of care team, will be launching in February. The team will be based on Serenity and run antenatal clinics once a week. Women will see their named midwife for antenatal care and be cared for during labour by one of the team on Serenity.