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Childbirth

UCH vs Whittington- VBAC? And other VBAC questions.

2 replies

MooMe · 07/12/2012 18:26

Hi all
I found a couple of threads on the matter but they're from 3-4 years ago and was wondering if anyone could shed some light on the matter for me.
I'm a foreigner in this country (moved here 4 years ago with DH+DS who was born on EMCS) and am currently preg. I went to see the GP today who was unsurprisingly not helpful (that surgery is wretched) and she gave me a choice between UCH and Whittington. I didn't know what to say and she was telling me I had to choose then and there so I chose UCH (I've seen the labour ward in both hospitals and UCH's seemed newer, no other reason than that which of course makes me feel shallow and stupid).
I'm very keen on having a VBAC, and also would prefer to give birth in water (or at least pass most of my ctx in water), and I have absolutely no idea how things work here, what to do, who to talk to to make it happen and so on.

Any insight on the differences between the two hospitals would be highly appreciated, and also any tip or info you can give me as I feel a bit lost :-(

I also tried finding a doula which seemed like a "mission impossible"- I went on the Doula UK website and there are about 30 doulas in my area (NW London)- how do I even start to filter them?! I don't know a lot of people here so really have no one to ask for advice.

Sorry for the lengthy post, and many thanks in advance for any insight!

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Pleasenomorepeppa · 07/12/2012 19:30

There are good things about both. The Whit has an amazing Birth Centre & are very open to most women using it. UCH seem to have a very strict criteria on who uses theirs.
I'm at UCH, due Jan 9th. I wanted to swap to The Whit because they seem to be more open to natural birth, it's closer & I know a couple of MWs there, but left it too late.
I've been really happy with my ante-natal care at UCH & spoke to a MW last week & although I'm not allowed in the BC, she is being supportive of a natural birth & has put on my notes that I'm to be put in a room with a pool if possible.
If I were you, I'd got to your booking in at UCH, talk to them & if you're not happy, speak to The Whit & ask them about a VBAC.
Good luck .