Royal Sussex or Worthing hospital?

RSCH were amazing for my birth, I was induced with a lot of complications, I would 100% recommend and have another birth there xx

I was meant to give birth in Brighton as I put it down as my first option but when I called they said they had no staff so I had to go to Worthing, I was a bit worried about it but I’m so happy I did in the end! The staff were wonderful and hospital is much better laid out, better parking, no having to wait for a lift to 13th floor or wherever maternity is in Brighton! But honestly the staff were all amazing so I can vouch for them! ❤️ I’m sure Brighton would have been fine also, I’ve had friends giving birth there and they had a good experience!

I had a homebirth. Brighton has an amazing homebirth team, and currently with the birthing pools at both Brighton and Haywards heath (don't know about Worthing) out of commission, it was the only way I could have the water birth that I wanted. I highly recommend talking to your midwife about your options of you think this might be something that resonates with you, also I got a doula who supported me throughout my pregnancy and labour. Mindset was super important and I practiced moving away from words like pain, and I knew if something went sideways I could transfer into hospital. My birth was amazing (FTM), pretty much 9 hours from first sight cramps to baby in my arms and we got into our own bed that night. It was awesome. Edit to add: I was also completely unmedicated. Even during the strongest surges I suddenly realised that I could take it and I felt a huge surge of empowerment and strength. I give birth in my home, in water and pulled my baby out with my own hands. 10/10 preaching for home birth

brighton was great both times round for my babies very supportive and understanding xx

I had a a great experience at Worthing Hospital, the staff were so friendly, approachable and wanted the best for you and your baby xx

I had our little girl in Brighton and everyone there was amazing and fast acting when they needed to be helped throughout the whole proses

@Rose your birth story is so reassuring and lovely to hear! I’m really big on hypnobirthing and reducing medical intervention as much as possible so I find so much comfort in hearing positive birth stories like yours. Having a water birth is definitely on my radar too. Thank you for sharing your experience ❤️

⬆️ Rose’s labour was what I aimed for, but ended up having to be induced at Royal Sussex. Honestly, my experience there wasn’t good, and had it not been for the support of my doula, I would have ended up with a completely unnecessary C-section (had to quite literally fight them off…. long story, but ultimately, I was right, and didn’t need one). Personally based on my previous experience I would now avoid hospital if I could. Home births are wonderful, but based on mine and lots of friends experience sadly go ahead less than they get cancelled. I would still always try for one though! My next choice would be crowborogh. Certainly for a first birth, 45 mins drive is not a problem in most cases… Happy to discuss my experience further in DM 🙂 Good luck, whatever you decide xx

I gave birth at Brighton and all the staff I interacted with were so friendly and caring. Ended up having a traumatic birth don’t know how I would have got through it without the midwives support x

I was meant to give birth at Worthing but they were full so I ended up in Chichester and that car ride felt long when in labour! Just a heads up I know a few people who were moved about so sometimes the choice isn’t yours. All the midwives seem lovely though

I had an amazing experience at Worthing hospital. All the midwives there are hypnobirth focused. Charlie was mine and I’ll never forget her she was incredible x

I had a great experience at Worthing. I had a prolonged and complex labour, but the staff were all amazing, friendly and attentive. I must also say though, I had a September baby (a busy month apparently) and when I tried to go there at 3am they were understaffed and asked me to go to Chichester (which also then turned out to be understaffed and sent me back to Worthing the next morning !)

Had my second two weeks ago at Brighton and it was the most fantastic experience. Every single member of staff I met were so kind and understanding- especially when I had a little emotional wobble before getting the epidural. I was induced and it was a great experience from start to finish

@Megan oh I’m so pleased to hear this! I’ve got about 3 weeks to go now and really trying to surround myself with positive birth stories so thank you for sharing, and congratulations on your little love ❤️