Kent- private births

[Plibble]

It is obsessive planning ahead, I know, but can anyone advise? This might actually impact on where I decide to move to!

DH and I are thinking of moving out of London where I gave birth to DD. DD's birth was horrid and it seems that, due to the small gap in my pelvis, I am going to have to have an elective section for future children. I am pretty pleased about the section (no labour - yay!) but would like to have private care in an NHS hospital next time around, as I want my own room, to meet the consultant before the op etc. As we will probably be living in Kent somewhere near Sevenoaks, can anyone tell me if there is a decent hospital in the area which meets this criteria?

hi, most nhs hospitals with a maternity ward have private facilitys, ring around the hospitals in the area, good luck. i payed for private maternity in watford god did it make a difference.... so true what they say you get what you pay for oh and most places do a fixed price package

I moved to Tunbridge Wells when I was 34 weeks pg with DS2, and after looking round Pembury Hospital asked the midwife if there were any private options. Her response: if there were any, we'd all be working there . According to her, if you want the private birth experience the nearest place is London

Having said that, I had DS2 at Pembury and had an amenity room, and it was fine.

There is a fantastic midwife led birthing centre at Crowborough (NHS) to which you can be referred if you are living within a certain distance. I know T Wells is covered so sure Sevenoaks would be too. You are allowed to stay for several days after the birth if you need to, so I understand. There is no proper private obstetric provision down here (I investigated it) as the very high rates of insurance prevent most private hospitals and consultants from offering it. Most of those I know who did go the private route from here went privately in St Thomas's or The Portland, which is very accessible from Kent, and should be easy if you are having an elective op.

Thanks. I had heard good things about Pembury, so I guess it is either that or a drive to Tommies.

My friend was told her pelvis was too small when labouring the first time and had a section. She had the next one naturally.

I wouldn't be so quick to cheer about a section when you already have a child to look after. The recover takes ages and it is a major operation.

I would check out Pembury before you move. Hasn't always had good press. You can pay for private rooms but if want major private care you'll have to get a private midwife at around £2500.

It's certainly one to think about.