I want to know more about my first labour.

[TrinityEatRhinoShit]

I gave birth to my first child nine years ago when I was a very naive nineteen year old. I was refused an epidural but ended up having failed forceps and ventous delivery. I had lots of stitches inside out but I don't know what happened or why. I know I lost so much blood I spent the next day passing out.

At the time I just accepted that was how labours were. Now though I have had two much easier births and am more informed I would like to know more about what happened. Was I cut? Did I tear? What degree was the tear? Why did the forceps fail? Why were they needed anyway?

Is it too late to get some answers now and if not who do I ask for the information?

[ROARmeow]

Were you not told/have discussion with midwife about previous labours each time u were pregnant?

I'm in Belfast and in each pregnancy a copy of birth notes for previous child was in my folder provided by hospital.

Any way you could ask your GP or local health board?

[CantUnderstandNewtonsTheory]

I think you can still ask for a debrief even 9 years on. Pals should be able to point you in the right direction.

[slightlyinsane]

You can request a copy of your notes at anytime from the record department at the hospital, give them a ring and they will explain what they need you to do. The normal charge is around £50. If it was me I would request all my maternity notes as when I'd seen one I'd want to see the others and while you're paying might aswel get your money's worth.

[TrinityEatRhinoShit]

Thanks everyone, I will look into requesting my notes.

Roar no, with each new pregnancy they have just asked brief questions.

I am wondering if my forceps birth could have resulted in my having such a fast labour the second time around now that I am thinking about it all.