It's scary when your baby's movements don't feel right.

You fill with a sense of unknowing and I was concerned every time it happened to me. I knew that, however unsettling it felt, telling my Maternity Unit was the right thing to do.

I visited triage five times for reduced movement in my third trimester. Every time I went in and they said all was fine I felt like a fraud. But, every time, I was made to feel welcome by the maternity staff, who were all amazing. 

The Covid Effect

Each time we went in, my husband had to wait in the car or go home. One of my visits to triage went on for five hours, and then I ended up being admitted into hospital. He wasn't allowed to come and see me. He had to wait to hear any news. I was on a new general ward, in pain, on my own, being constantly monitored and it was a scary experience.

It's really is a difficult time for anyone expecting a baby, let alone first time parents. The whole thing is barmy.  

Why it was worth it

At 38 weeks we had our final case of reduced movement. We ended up having additional growth scans and doppler studies to try and work out why it kept happening. They noticed that my little girls growth was delayed, though we still don't know why, but we were thankful she was being closely monitored.

They decided it was best to book an induction but, as the situation could be monitored, we agreed it would be in a few days time. When they said I should be induced I panicked at first, I wanted to be able to discuss it with my husband. I didn't feel ready. I was glad when they said it could hold off, but made it clear that I needed to go straight back if I was ever worried.

My induction started on 3rd September and it took a long time for labour to get going. Once my waters finally broke, everything sped up.  After 45 minutes of pushing, my baby girl was born. No pain relief, no time to prep my room, no time to take it in that I was actually about to give birth. My labour was quick, from waters breaking to birth of the placenta was 4 hours and 55 minutes.

She was a little poorly but, thanks to the incredible team of professionals, our beautiful bundle arrived safe and into our arms.

Kicks really do count.

Story from: Bryony Roberts // @wearing.my.stripes on Instagram

---

---

What should you do if you notice a change in your baby's movements during the Covid-19 pandemic?

You should call your Maternity Unit immediately. They are there to care for you and your baby whenever you need. Don't forget:

• Don't put off calling until tomorrow to see what happens.
  
  
• Don't worry about calling - your midwives and doctors will want to hear from you. Your Maternity Unit is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so there will always be someone available to talk to.
  
  
• Don't use any hand-held monitors, dopplers, or phone apps to check your baby’s heartbeat. Even if you detect a heartbeat, it doesn't mean your baby is well.

It's more important than ever that you don't arrive at the hospital unannounced, always phone first.

If there are any concerns about your baby you can be seen, regardless of whether you are showing symptoms of Covid-19. Ensure you mention if you are showing symptoms though, so steps can be taken to ensure the safety of those looking after you. 

Mama, you've got this.

#KicksStillCount