Hope's Birth Experience at Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz
Hope gave birth in 2021 to her second child at Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz. She chose this hospital because it was close to home and it was well-equipped since it has both private and public options. They opted for private as it’s covered by my insurance.
Hope's Story:
We moved to Madrid when I was 36 weeks so we went private and found Dr Isabel Blanco who’s willing to take a late case. We didn’t have much expectations given I had a traumatic emergency c-section experience with my firstborn in the U.S. but from the get-go, Isabel has been patient, caring, and incredibly respectful of my wishes.
And suddenly she spoke English to me, which reassured me that even without my Spanish partner by my side, I can speak to my doc without fear of miscommunication (I can speak Spanish but not to the level of talking about medical procedures!). I opted for an epidural and vaginal birth, which I accept could have high chances of going to Cesarean given my last birth. I soon had to be induced due to preeclampsia fears and precautions so went to the hospital a week before the due date.
Other than administration hell (typical in Spain), we were given a private suite (Two rooms with sofa bed, TV, armchairs, fridges, hotel toiletries!!!). What is surprising is that Isabel showed up to talk to me and reassure me that night, and again the next day, in between her busy schedule (note, the clinic is right across the road from the hospital). She’s a mother of 4 herself, so she felt determined to give me the vaginal birth despite the c-section odds.
I have to say, it’s a nice change to see your doctor along the way, as midwives & nurses come and go and change shifts (some are super nice, some judgey, but overall professional and respectful - they let me sleep sometimes rather than wake me). Isabel even stayed sleeping at the hospital waiting until I’m ready to give birth. She advocated for my wishes against the midwives and other doctors who were already talking about caesarean since being induced could take days until labour, so I felt I have a doctor who really cares!
The birth was quick, Isabel is so calm and supportive the whole way, and I’m very grateful to have found such a fantastic doctor for this journey! I’m sharing my story because I hope Isabel gets more attention since she’s really an amazing doctor and overall very human in approach. She’s proud of her work and shares it (with permission) on her Instagram @dr.isabelblanco_ginecologa
Thanks Hope for sharing your story!
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).