Cossham Birthing Centre

[usernamessuck123]

Hi all,

I know it's a long shot - but has anyone recently given birth at Cossham Birth Centre? I am split 50/50 between here and Southmead - I know there is a transfer time to Southmead if you are at Cossham but it just looks so NICE.

I was wondering if anyone has been there recently and advise whether it was really as good as everyone is saying?

Thanks!

Hi 😀
I had both DS1 who is almost four, and DS2 who has just turned two at Cossham. I am due DS3 at the end of November and am planning on giving birth to him at Cossham too if all goes to plan!

I honestly cannot fault it, the midwives are absolutely amazing, they listen to what you want, and are really supportive.
I had a waterbirth both times, and hope to again. The midwives were bringing me doughnuts and jam on toast to keep my energy levels up!!
And once you've had baby there is no rush to get you out, plus your partner can stay the night.

I don't like hospitals, so Cossham was an obvious choice for me, it's a very relaxing atmosphere, definitely recommend, I have to all my friends!

Have you been to look around Cossham? That sealed the deal for me, felt more like a hotel than a hospital 😊 xx

Amazing - Thank you so so much for your reply!!

I am going to ring them today to book in to have a look round! xx

I gave birth at Southmead but when I first called them I was sent to Cossham for assessment as Southmead was full. It was amazing in terms of the rooms/facilities and the midwife we saw was fab but I was never tempted to stay there for birth as I was terrified at the lack of onsite doctors. As it turned out I had a v long labour and needed an epidural so I made the right decision. The thing I would say though is be careful what you believe about the transfer time - I recall they told me I could be at southmead in 15 mins if needed but the lady opposite me on the postnatal ward said she started at Cossham and had to be transferred but the ambulance took 2 hours to come by which time she had to be strapped down!! So that put me right off ever going there in future. But have a look round and see what you think. It's also worth doing the tour of Southmead. Good luck!

I should also say that I had a great experience at Southmead - fab midwifes including a lovely student who spent hours giving me aromatherapy massage! And partners can stay the first night with you there too. Let me know if you have any questions I might be able to help with

Thank you!! I have booked to see Cossham on Saturday and will sort going to see Southmead too. My main worries have always been the transfer time and my partner staying - so it's good to be able to weigh it up!

thank you again