St Thomas/Kings/Lewisham hospital

[Neh86]

Hi All,
I had a very traumatic first birth with forceps when vetuose failed, resulting a 4th degree tear and the consultant did not do an episiotomy. So was told whenever I plan second will be an elective c section. I live in SE and have the option of St Thomas/Kings/Lewisham hospital. Can anyone share their recent experiences especially postnatal recovery at either of these hospitals.
TIA

I had an ELCS at Kings. I had some pushback but stood my ground and so was agreed it. I had understood St Thomas doesn’t agreee to ELCS but in your case it could be different. It was a relaxed and wonderful procedure at Kings I have a perfect tidy little scar and I recovered well within 7 days. I left hospital after 3 days. I can definitely recommend Kings. The post natal recovery ward experience was fairly poor - but that is everywhere. And Kings post natal ward was far superior to princess royal University hospital; the way the midwives spoke and treated myself and other mothers at PRUH was appalling. They should be ashamed.

And I am really sorry you had such a poor experience with your first. I am sure this will be much much better

Thanks poolbridge appreciate your reply. Yes it’s been difficult that’s why took a while to go for the second one after 5 years.

I insisted on a ELCS for both my children after 1 of my girlfriends had a horrific experience at a leading hospital; with devastating life changes consequences for her baby. I really feel for you. You will find the ELCS so wonderful by comparison. Relaxed. You will know your date and can prepare for the arrival. And really, I was up and moving within 7 days and only needed painkillers for the first few days. Within 6 weeks you will likely be moving about with so much ease; probably entirely back to normal. I can’t recommend ELCS enough and the risks are so much lower than emergency caesarians. You have been on a tough journey - I cant imagine. But you will definitely have a wonderful experience this time. Best wishes for the safe arrival of your beautiful new little one to come. Big hugs.

I had a EMCS at Kings in 2018 and an ELCS at the end of last year. I was a bit out of it the first time (obvs!) but for the elective the theatre crew were so kind and professional I cried! Felt totally, totally in safe hands and it was all so straightforward. Stayed one night and was out by 3pm the next day (but could’ve stayed longer if wanted).

As a pp says postnatal care is always a bit hit and miss but think I found it better this time. Covid rules meant partners couldn’t stay over which I much preferred and I got all the help I needed. they didn’t serve breakfast tho til 9.30am!! Take your own snacks a plenty.

Wishing you all the best. xxx

Thanks @Poolbridgepoolbridge fingers crossed for this time. @Bonjourlaclasse thanks for sharing your experience, really helpful.

I had 2 ELCS at St Thomas - doctor and anaesthetist both excellent with fairly quick recovery afterwards. First time round had the most amazing midwife who spent hours (even staying past the end of her shift) to help me get DS to latch as I was having no success. Can’t thank her enough to this day! Hospital food as always leaves much to be desired (take your own) and the ward was much much too warm. If possible to get your own room then I would do that.

Thanks KNpepper yes I have gone ahead with St Thomas fingers crossed everything goes well