Charlie's Birth at Hospital Universitario de Torrejón
Charlie is originally from the UK and she gave birth at the Hospital Universitario de Torrejón in 2020.
Why did you choose this hospital?
I wanted a natural water birth. There were two hospitals that offered this that were options to me. This one was closer
Charlie's Story:
I had an appointment at Torrejón at 10.30am, the day I went in labour for a possible membrane sweep. I went into labour early that morning, contractions progressed very quickly so I actually arrived at the hospital at my appointment time.
I took half an hour to go from 3cm to 8cm.. ( they only rechecked me as I said I needed to push) the contractions were pretty intense without much gap, it caused me to vomit.
They quickly filled the pool up. When in the pool I felt a majority of the pain go and just the pushing urge remain. It was hard work but I feel I had prepared for a lot of my pregnancy for the pushing part, lots of squats lots of steps.
I felt strong. 2 hours from start of intense contractions to her arrival. I had no pain relief by choice. I had no physical help in birthing her and there was a language barrier ( I had done hypnobirthing and feel it kept me calm and I realised what my body was trying to do)
So I was the first to touch her and bring her to my chest. It was lovely. The attending midwife was attentive, but seemed to sense I wasn't worried, so kept a distance when is what I wanted.
I felt safe, but most importantly I felt like I was in control, and that was important to me.
Did you have a doula? If yes, how was the experience? If no, how do you think having a doula may have changed your experience?
No, I think it would have been useful for the language barrier, essential if I had been in a regular hospital, or even if my labour had been longer.
Did you feel supported in your chosen method of feeding your baby?
Yes, however I asked for her to be checked for a tongue tie, which they did, but a pretty severe one was missed. I have a very high pain threshold, but my breastfeeding journey was very hard until she had her tie diagnosed and cut at 3 months.
If you'd like to share your birth story in Madrid (hospital or home birth!), please do so here.
Giving birth in Madrid or a new mom in Madrid? Looking for support on the wild ride called parenthood?
Look no further - book a free discovery call with me (Madison - doula in Madrid) today and let's chat about how together we can work to make your experience a positive one! And be sure to check out the Madoula homepage. If you're looking for doula support during your pregnancy, birth, or postpartum please be sure to contact me for a free consultation!
Giving birth is one of the most vulnerable moments in a person's life. There are many factors to consider at all times. The support of a doula from home to hospital adds an additional layer of support for both the birthing person and partner. Continuous care and individualized support both increase the likelihood of satisfaction with one's birth experience, regardless of the birth outcome (C-section, instrumental birth, etc).