Has anyone given birth whilst away from home? How was it?

[12ylnon]

Have also posted in 'Childbirth' but thought i might get some answers here too.

We're going away for a week in my 32nd week to cornwall, it's about a 6 hour drive away from our home.

I had threatened early labour with DS1 from about my 34th week (they managed to stop it twice, he eventually came at about 37 weeks), but we've decided to go because it'll be the last chance we have to go away before the baby and we figure if i do go into labour, it's really not that far away and won't be the end of the world.

Obviously we'll check where the local hospital is before we go and i'll take my hospital bag, notes and the car seat. But i was just wondering if it's happened to anyone else and how it went? I'd be a little sad if it happened, but just because the hospital i'm due to give birth in here is FAB (brand new, private rooms etc), but aside from that, i can't see any obvious draw-backs.

The only issue I can think of is if for any reason you are kept in after delivery, either you or baby, particularly at end of holiday your DH will need to find accommodation.
This could work out quite expensive. But if mw thinks everything is ok this time round then go and enjoy!

If your baby comes in week 32/3 they will need a bed in nicu so it might not be that easy to be far from home.
I'd have a word with your mw about thé chances of a second early labour. There is a fetal hormone test that can be done and if it comes back neg it means you are very unlikely to go in to labour within the next 2 weeks but I don't know how you would go about getting it done.

I delivered my first son in Cornwall whilst on holiday at 35 weeks 3 years ago. It was very quick labour and birth and the staff were absolutely amazing,I was so impressed considering this tourist pitched up on their doorstep in full blown labour! This was at the royal Cornwall hospital treliske. My son didn't need scbu but we stayed on the post natal ward for over a week to establish feeding, this was under a transitional care facility so scbu drs kept an eye on the baby as he was early. We had a private room and due to the distance from home my husband was allowed to stay in the room with us. I couldn't fault the experience, the staff were great.

I think you'd be very sensible to pack the things you've said and have the hospital directions in the sat nav ready! Also, maybe have a contingency plan for your first child in terms of child care. I think if you are prepared it is less likely to happen!

Enjoy your holiday

I think thats the nearest one to where we're going to as well cake , thats made me feel much better! We're going on holiday with a large group of friends, so it'll be no problem to find someone to take DS.
Will ask about that test ninja at next MW appointment.
Spoke to a MW this afternoon and she said it's absolutely fine to go, she really didn't foresee any real issues with it. Phew!

If its good enough for the PM!!!