First-time mum tells of supportive care at PEH

EXPECTANT parents are being given reassurance from a first-time mum who underwent a caesarean during the current lockdown.

A first-time mum who had a C-section during lockdown spoke to the Guernsey Press about how fantastic the support from the staff was. Partners are not allowed into theatre due to enhanced risk of Covid-19 transmission. (Picture by Tom Tardiff, 29229983)

Expectant mothers who give birth via caesarean section in theatre must currently do so without their partners because of Covid-19. They must also attend scans at the Princess Elizabeth Hospital alone.

One birth partner is allowed while in hospital, except for theatre where a midwife will be by their side as officials say there is a higher risk of Covid infection during operations.

Many worried islanders due to have a C-section took to the press conference video comment section to air their protests and several sent questions to the media for more details.

Having undergone a C-section on 27 January, Felicity Cornes has shared her experience.

She gave birth to a girl, Tilly, while her husband, Jake, remained on Loveridge Ward when she was in theatre.

While first-time mum Felicity Cornes underwent an emergency C-section, her husband Jake had to stay on Loveridge Ward. (Picture by Tom Tardiff, 29230003)

‘Any emergency and any unplanned C-section is scary but it was even more so because of Covid,’ said Mrs Cornes.

‘At 12am when I was being wheeled down both Jake and I were crying, but for anyone worried or anxious at this time please don’t be.

‘The whole emergency operating team were absolutely amazing and honestly I was made to feel like the most important person in the world at that time. The team 100% took care of Tilly and I and made sure we were all OK.

‘Jake was supported by the team on Loveridge Ward, was able to stay after and do skin-to-skin and since then was supported by all of the team while I recover.’

Mrs Cornes added that even though it ‘wasn’t the ideal situation’ the family had received all the care they needed.

Head of Maternity and Paediatrics Annabel Nicholas said they were pleased that the Cornes family felt looked after because that is what motivated them as a team.

‘We know some expectant parents are worried and hope the Cornes’s story offers some reassurance to them,’ she said.

‘We are so passionate about women and families having the best experience they can, whatever the circumstances.

‘Hopefully the current restrictions won’t be in place for long but we know that is no consolation to those affected. In the meantime, we are committed to doing all we can to make your birthing experience as comfortable and safe as possible.’

The Loveridge Ward team has said that all non-urgent queries should be put to the Community Midwives on communitymw@gov.gg, while anyone who is in labour or has an urgent query should contact Loveridge Ward on 707377.