Bristol: St Michael's or Southmead?

[Ninjacat]

Have two weeks to make a decision. Any one got any suggestions?

I've heard good things about the breast feeding care in St Michaels but the parking is shi*e.

I had DS in Southmead - was really fine. Just felt it lacked in the breast feeding support that's all

I'm the opposite (in some ways) I had my baby in Southmead (was 5 yrs ago, but am going there again with number 2). Breastfeeding support was great and I had no problems with feeding when I got home.

Parking was still poor, I had thought St Michaels was better, but by the sounds of it they're both bad. Ultrasound scan service is good at Southmead (didn't have to wait long when got them done), don't know about St Michaels.

Thank you, much appreciated.

You get a parking pass when in labor, so don't worry about that.

St Michaels has air conditioning in the delivery suite, which was a deciding factor for me as Southmead didn't at the time. But check.

I was in Southmead for my stillbirth and they were so wonderfully supportive and kind.
Have had loads of support there since losing the baby and the consultant obstetrician - tim Draycott is just brilliant.

I had Ds in the birthing suite at Southmead and it was lovely. I used the birthing pool and would recommend that highly. The midwife, Claire N, who delivered my Ds was fantastic and if I have another I will demand her work scedule a month before so I can make sure I go into labour on her shift!

Aftercare on the ward wasn't particularly great but nothing I'd complain about. I think I just wanted to go home and sleep in my own bed.

I'm definitely swinging towards Southmead. Do you think that's silly as I live walking distance from St Michaels?

It's whatever makes you feel better about the whole birth experience. I mean walking distance isn't going to be a factor for you really - unless you plan on contracting on St Michaels hill which I wouldn't recommend!

My home birth didn't work out (taking too long) and I very reluctantly had my baby at St Michaels last year. I hate hospitals and had some issues with a few of the medical staff being pushy with interventions. However, the nurses on the maternity ward were angels (esp. Charlene!) and I got fantastic breastfeeding support. I haven't been to Southmead so couldn't comment but my friend had hers there and didn't say anything negative about it.

Could you do a quick visit to both and see what your gut instinct tells you?

Good luck either way!

ps. cool name

Thanks for all your responses
St Michaels don't do a tour but southmead do so will try and get myself on one.

I quite fancy the pool idea

N