Tell us about your family…

We are Alex and Beth, I work in a children’s nursery and my husband Alex works in 3D printing. We are parents to baby Lottie. We took the Happy Parents Happy Baby antenatal classes in Cambridge.

 

How was your pregnancy?

My pregnancy was generally pretty smooth sailing until the last trimester where I was diagnosed with obstetric cholestasis which I was unaware about and had not heard of. 

 

Where did you have your baby?

The Rosie at Addenbrookes, all the Midwives and nurses were very caring and friendly.

 

How was your birth?

My birth was a really positive experience and very quick!  I didn’t have the birth I wanted due to obstetric cholestasis but it was still a positive experience and my baby and I were safe. 

 

How did you keep comfortable?

Paracetamol 2/5 – didn’t really have much effect.
Breathing techniques 4/5 – made me feel in control and grounded. 
Keep moving 5/5 – distracted me from the pressure of her head.

 

How did you feel when you first met your baby?

Instant love and shock that she was born and all pain was instantly gone.

 

How were the early days with your baby?

They felt like a dream but also crazy that you were in charge of this tiny human. The HPHB course helped with safe sleep and breastfeeding and other little tips that helped in the first few days.

 

What has been your top triumph?

Becoming a mum! 

 

What has been your top challenge?

Leaving my baby either with family members or my husband so I can have me time or go out for a few hours.

 

What has been your proudest moment?

Everyday being able to watch our little girl grow and personality develop and her traits coming through from both of us.

 

One thing you weren’t expecting…

Everyday being able to watch our little girl grow and personality develop and her traits coming through from both of us.

 

How have your HPHB group supported you?

We have a ladies only group chat that one of the mums made and we meet up and can ask others advice when needed or know that we are not alone!

 

Most useful hospital bag item…

Plenty of trousers! My waters broke and I underestimated how much water there would have been and how long it happens for! 

 

What was your best post-birth treat?

McFlurry!!!

 

Most useful baby item…

Swinging crib! 

 

What was your most useful gift?

White noise machine.

 

One final tip for other expectant parents…

Take everyday as it comes! Just because you have a rough night or day it doesn’t mean they are all going to be like that! But also because one person says their  baby did this or their baby did that it doesn’t mean yours will or has to, every baby is different!

 

---