20/07/2026
Brownies and Birth Prep chat at last night's Pregnancy class at Monymusk, with such a great group of girls.
But my heart goes out to them right now, having to navigate the current situation at Inverurie Birth Unit and it's LOCK AND LEAVE policy, and also being assessed for discharge home at 2 hours, or transfer to AMH fur further care.
2 hours post birth is wild, when you think about at least 1 hour uninterrupted time post birth, time to assess and suture if needed, time to feed, time to check and weigh baby, shower, refuel and that's not to mention the fact they have just given birth!!! They are at their most vulnerable.
It is also causing so much Birth anxiety with the uncertainty that it will even be an option for Birth on the day.
What is most frustrating is that this information is not being conveyed correctly and willingly to all, from listening to all the Mums to be chatting in class they are all still being given different versions or none at all.
Which is unfair.
Can you tell I feel a wee bit mad about this??
Having been a midwife for many years, I totally understand the constraints of the system, and they can only offer what they can offer. But at very heart of this there are the people who need to use this service and make choices for themselves and their babies.
They deserve the facts even if it makes the current provided service look lacking.
Birth choices are important and to make them you need all the correct information.
Everyone is different, some need a set plan to feel safe and confident for birth and need to know where they are definitely heading.
Others are comfortable with a Plan A and Plan B.
It's a lot for Mama's to be and their partners to mentally navigate.
Helping as much as I can, by offering Circles to chat, and feel listened to, so they can work their way through their planning and process and voice their feelings.
To all my class attendees who are snd have navigated this difficult situation, I'm so proud of you all. 🙌