West London maternity choices - Queen Charlotte’s or ChelWest?

[KaeBee]

I’ve been told to self-refer (first pregnancy), I thought I’d opt for QC which is my closest option, however have seen quite a few negative reviews so considering C&W - has anyone got experience of either post-pandemic? I’m a terrible decision maker at the best of times 🤦‍♀️
Also any other first-timers around Ealing? Would love to share the panic 😆

Hullo! I had my first baby at Queen Charlotte's, and it was fine- but it's a VERY VERY busy maternity hospital. Everything took hours, at every stage.

I had my second at Ealing hospital, which I realise people are weirdly snobbish about. Got a gorgeous private room, pretty much walked straight in to every appointment, and it was super convenient.

I do not have straightforward pregnancies (do many people?), but I do give birth fast. I would never have made it to QC in time with child number 2.

Thanks for sharing! Unfortunately Ealing is no longer an option, they closed the maternity ward ☹️ Otherwise I’d be considering it!

Blimey. I'd have been giving birth on the side of the road. Gulp. Good luck!

I had one baby In each of these hospitals and had by far the better experience at QC:

C&W we're really disorganised with appointments- always running really late and a few were cancelled. They. sent me home whilst in labour and scared - without even checking me - and told me to just manage the pain myself. Turns out I was in the late stages of labour- gave birth shortly afterwards. No help with BFing and nurses on post natal ward were vile and rude. Felt very vulnerable and badly cared for.

At QC I was under consultant care due high risk pregnancy, regular scans and checks, everyone was lovely and kind. Some waiting for appointments but not too bad. The birth was v quick with a fab midwife and a cast of many staff present (due high risk), DC was very unwell and rushed off to nicu where he got amazing 121 care and I was kept informed and involved at every stage.

Just my own personal experience, hopefully people have had better experiences of C&W. I would personally go for the closest hospital if you are happy with it just incase you need regular appointments- I needed tests/ checks every 2-3 days from 25 weeks to I'm really glad I went with QC as that was nearer my home and work.

This was pre- pandemic btw so hopefully you can get some more recent feedback!

Thanks so much! So nice to hear from someone who has experienced both (though I appreciate it’s different for everyone). QC is actually slightly closer so I was leaning toward it however had seen had a few negative reviews so just want to make sure it’s not a bad idea before referring (assuming all goes to plan - early days 🤞)

Eeeek! Might just go for the closest then 😆