I was admitted to ward 24 for an induction. After my waters broke, my labour progressed rapidly and within 4 hours I needed to push. The build-up to this part was difficult as I could not be offered effective pain relief, the labour department seemed exceptionally busy and Covid restrictions meant that my partner could not be there.

When Esther turned up, I felt that she advocated for me to the other members of the midwifery team and became my voice when I struggled to speak. She understood that I said that the baby was coming and that I did not feel that I could make the journey down to labour ward. She calmly explained that it was safer there because of doctors but accepted my choice to stay. She coached me through the birth of my daughter in a calm and clear way and I felt very positive and in control during her delivery. She turned a very difficult and, in some places, out of my control time, into a positive experience.

Unfortunately, due to Covid restrictions on the ward, my husband missed the birth, but I felt that Esther took the birth partner role, and I am grateful that she was there. I would also like to thank the student midwife who worked with Esther as she was very cheerful and helped put me at ease.