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• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 34-36 >> Interview 14 >> During pregnancy she had a streptococcal infection, so she had to have intravenous antibiotics during labour.

Required treatment for thrombophilia and a streptococcal infection but pregnancy otherwise normal. Labour involved more intervention than she had wanted.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 17 >> She caught 'slapped cheek' syndrome (parvovirus) and was monitored carefully in case it affected the baby's growth.

Single mother of two. First child born by emergency caesarean, second by elective caesarean. Faced unhelpful assumptions because she was young and single.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 42 >> She was tested for gestational diabetes, which made her very anxious for a while. The results were normal.

Normal first pregnancy. Gestational diabetes was suspected but ruled out. Had to spend time in hospital late in pregnancy for investigation of bleeding. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 01.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 10 >> Her midwife spotted symptoms of pre-eclampsia and the baby was induced next day. She was very scared, but the care in hospital was excellent.

Unplanned but otherwise straightforward pregnancy. Pre-eclampsia and induction. Difficult labour without pain relief. Episiotomy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 60 >> She developed symptoms of pre-eclampsia from 30 weeks, including swelling, high blood pressure, and headaches. Staff wanted to deliver the baby quickl

After four miscarriages, baby in fifth pregnancy diagnosed with heart condition. Mother (who is diabetic) had pre-eclampsia and emergency caesarean. Severe sickness in every pregnancy. Interviewed during sixth pregnancy, and again after a stillbirth at 36 weeks. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 29.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 33 >> When pre-eclampsia was diagnosed at 36 weeks, she was kept in hospital for a week and monitored closely.

Mother who has epilepsy, cared for during her first pregnancy by a Special Pregnancy Unit. Developed pre-eclampsia and had induction with epidural at 37 weeks.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 40 + >> Interview 09 >> She had bleeding from a low-lying placenta. She stayed at home apart from two short stays in hospital, and was able to have a vaginal birth.

First pregnancy normal, emergency caesarean after long labour. Next two pregnancies ended in early miscarriage. Now pregnant again and planning vaginal birth. (Interviewed again after vaginal birth).

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 72 >> From 30 weeks she had to stay in hospital because she had placenta praevia. She was allowed home at weekends, but it was a big disruption to family li

Placenta praevia diagnosed in most recent pregnancy. Spent several weeks in hospital before the birth (baby born 2002). More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 39.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 13 >> She had terrible itching which was treated as an allergy at first, until a doctor diagnosed obstetric cholestasis. (Played by an actor.)

Young, single mother. Pregnancy unplanned. Well supported by family. Had Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (pelvic pain) and cholestasis (liver problem) during pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 40 + >> Interview 48 >> When she developed terrible itching the midwife sent her to hospital to check for obstetric cholestasis. She was shocked to learn the baby might be st

Healthy pregnancy after 2 miscarriages. Mother had obstetric cholestasis (liver problem) in late pregnancy, but baby was unaffected and born healthy. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 13.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 40 + >> Interview 48 >> She rang the delivery suite about obstetric cholestasis. The midwife reassured her, but she had to wait over the bank holiday weekend for an appointme

Healthy pregnancy after 2 miscarriages. Mother had obstetric cholestasis (liver problem) in late pregnancy, but baby was unaffected and born healthy. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 13.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 40 + >> Interview 48 >> She went into hospital every day so they could monitor the obstetric cholestasis. She would rather have been induced straight away.

Healthy pregnancy after 2 miscarriages. Mother had obstetric cholestasis (liver problem) in late pregnancy, but baby was unaffected and born healthy. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 13.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 03 >> Vasa praevia is a very rare condition in which a blood vessel from the placenta or umbilical cord lies across the cervix. If it ruptures, the baby may

Apparently normal pregnancy, after problems with endometriosis. Vasa praevia discovered during labour. Baby needed resuscitation and intensive care, but recovered well with no long-term problems as originally feared.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 03 >> Her waters were broken during an induction, and suddenly there was a lot of blood. Staff suspected vasa praevia and did an emergency caesarean.

Apparently normal pregnancy, after problems with endometriosis. Vasa praevia discovered during labour. Baby needed resuscitation and intensive care, but recovered well with no long-term problems as originally feared.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 03 >> The baby needed resuscitation immediately after birth and there were concerns she might have brain damage. (She is now five and developing normally).

Apparently normal pregnancy, after problems with endometriosis. Vasa praevia discovered during labour. Baby needed resuscitation and intensive care, but recovered well with no long-term problems as originally feared.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 60 >> Managing blood sugar levels during pregnancy is important for people with diabetes. She never thought about getting pre-pregnancy counselling.

After four miscarriages, baby in fifth pregnancy diagnosed with heart condition. Mother (who is diabetic) had pre-eclampsia and emergency caesarean. Severe sickness in every pregnancy. Interviewed during sixth pregnancy, and again after a stillbirth at 36 weeks. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 29.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 60 >> She had excellent care during pregnancy, but with hindsight wonders if her baby was stillborn because of her diabetes.

After four miscarriages, baby in fifth pregnancy diagnosed with heart condition. Mother (who is diabetic) had pre-eclampsia and emergency caesarean. Severe sickness in every pregnancy. Interviewed during sixth pregnancy, and again after a stillbirth at 36 weeks. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 29.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 03 >> After severe nosebleeds at 18 weeks, she had to stay off work and avoid strenuous activity for the rest of pregnancy.

Apparently normal pregnancy, after problems with endometriosis. Vasa praevia discovered during labour. Baby needed resuscitation and intensive care, but recovered well with no long-term problems as originally feared.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 32 >> She felt she was an expert in her own condition, but when it came to pregnancy became passive and unquestioning, which was unlike her.

Mother who uses a wheelchair. Antenatal care from a special pregnancy unit because of her condition. Emergency caesarean. Serious complications following a mistake in managing her medication.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 12 >> They had been trying on and off to get pregnant but not very seriously, so they felt a bit taken aback when it happened.

Normal first pregnancy. Premature labour and birth at 33 weeks. Had to transfer to another hospital because no neonatal intensive care places were available locally.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 24 >> It was exciting to discover she was pregnant, but hard to imagine herself having a baby.

Became pregnant in a another country where care philosophy was very interventionist. Returned to UK at 7 months and had a successful home birth with an independent midwife.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 30 >> Even though her pregnancy was planned, she felt upset at first. Friends reassured her feelings were normal. Having children is an important part of he

Normal first pregnancy. Found antenatal classes useful, but felt a women-only class might be useful for South Asian women. Chose to have an epidural for the birth.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 40 + >> Interview 09 >> The first symptom of pregnancy was a strange taste in her mouth, before she knew she was pregnant.

First pregnancy normal, emergency caesarean after long labour. Next two pregnancies ended in early miscarriage. Now pregnant again and planning vaginal birth. (Interviewed again after vaginal birth).

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 34-36 >> Interview 16 >> After IVF, they were so anxious and excited they did the pregnancy test in the middle of the night and immediately phoned family to tell them. Only on

Experienced recurrent miscarriage before entering an egg share IVF scheme. IVF was successful after one cycle and pregnancy was excellent. Vaginal birth.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 34-36 >> Interview 28 >> They could hardly believe the pregnancy test was positive and had to repeat it. He was so happy he did not care England had lost at football.

Supported partner through fertility treatment and pregnancy. Is looking forward to becoming a father.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 13 >> Discovering she was pregnant unexpectedly was a big shock - she was upset to have to cancel plans to join the army to train as a nurse. (Played by an

Young, single mother. Pregnancy unplanned. Well supported by family. Had Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (pelvic pain) and cholestasis (liver problem) during pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 07 >> When she discovered she was pregnant unexpectedly it was hard to tell her family, but they were supportive. (Read by an actor.)

Unplanned pregnancy after graduating from university. Supported by partner but felt a lack of institutional support for young, unmarried women. Looking forward to balancing motherhood with a career.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 06 >> She developed bloating, sharp pain and sickness in early pregnancy. This was caused by ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome resulting from IVF.

First pregnancy through ICSI IVF. Experienced hyper ovarian stimulation. Induced at 42 weeks with birth by emergency section. Second pregnancy occurred naturally 7 months after birth of first child.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 10 >> It was easier to give up smoking when she became pregnant, and she has not started smoking again.

Unplanned but otherwise straightforward pregnancy. Pre-eclampsia and induction. Difficult labour without pain relief. Episiotomy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 07 >> She worried whether smoking and drinking before she realised she was pregnant had harmed the baby. (Read by an actor.)

Unplanned pregnancy after graduating from university. Supported by partner but felt a lack of institutional support for young, unmarried women. Looking forward to balancing motherhood with a career.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 25 >> When her first pregnancy ended in miscarriage, the staff at the Early Pregnancy Unit were very supportive.

First and most recent pregnancy ended in miscarriage. Two normal pregnancies in between, with severe sickness both times. Good support from Early Pregnancy Unit.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 01 >> At nine weeks, she experienced bleeding and severe pain, and an ectopic pregnancy was suspected. A scan showed the baby was fine and the pain went awa

Normal pregnancy apart from episode of severe pain (suspected ectopic) and high blood sugar. Caesarean birth. Was not able to breastfeed. Recovery from caesarean took longer than expected.

• Topic
• >> Pregnancy >> Emotions during pregnancy >> Emotions during pregnancy

Emotions during pregnancy

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Emotions during pregnancy >> Emotions during pregnancy

Emotions during pregnancy

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 33 >> She was surprised the GP did not do another pregnancy test and told her to come back at 10 weeks.

Mother who has epilepsy, cared for during her first pregnancy by a Special Pregnancy Unit. Developed pre-eclampsia and had induction with epidural at 37 weeks.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 12 >> She worried whether she would be a good mother and how she would react to the baby.

Normal first pregnancy. Premature labour and birth at 33 weeks. Had to transfer to another hospital because no neonatal intensive care places were available locally.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 10 >> Antenatal classes were not very useful. She found some of the activities a bit strange.

Unplanned but otherwise straightforward pregnancy. Pre-eclampsia and induction. Difficult labour without pain relief. Episiotomy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 56 >> She went to the GP thinking she was 8 weeks pregnant and discovered she had not understood how to work out her due date.

Two normal pregnancies. Felt well supported by midwives in making birthing choices. First birth was a water birth in hospital; hopes to have the same for second birth. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 25.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 20 >> She did not rush to make an appointment with her GP. With hindsight more information would have been useful. (Read by an actor.)

Single mother. First pregnancy miscarried. Second pregnancy was normal and straightforward. She planned to have a natural birth, but after a long labour chose to have a caesarean.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 04 >> She expected more reaction from the midwife to the news she was pregnant. More informal contact during the early weeks would have been reassuring.

Normal pregnancy. Breech presentation resolved through successful ECV. Induction at 42 weeks. Forceps delivery. Difficulty with breastfeeding. Importance of managing expectations of pregnancy and birth realistically.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 45 >> She would have liked more opportunity to talk to staff in the early weeks and needed reassurance about the risk of miscarriage.

normal first pregnancy, private care throughout. Experienced a lot of sickness. Planning a hospital birth with as little intervention as possible. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 08.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 54 >> She was very afraid of birth after seeing a TV documentary as a teenager, and did not want her husband to see her giving birth.

After initial contact with NHS, had most antenatal care in France. Baby born 2 months early in England. Good experiences of hospital birth and Special Care Baby Unit. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 23.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 25 >> When her first pregnancy ended in miscarriage, the staff at the Early Pregnancy Unit were very supportive.

First and most recent pregnancy ended in miscarriage. Two normal pregnancies in between, with severe sickness both times. Good support from Early Pregnancy Unit.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 24 >> Her GP and independent midwife supported her choice of a home birth, but her family were doubtful.

Became pregnant in a another country where care philosophy was very interventionist. Returned to UK at 7 months and had a successful home birth with an independent midwife.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 25 >> She gave up work in one pregnancy to reduce the risk of another miscarriage. With her second child she carried on working but changed her hours.

First and most recent pregnancy ended in miscarriage. Two normal pregnancies in between, with severe sickness both times. Good support from Early Pregnancy Unit.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 10 >> Especially in a first pregnancy women need a lot of advice and reassurance, but she did not want to bother the midwives between appointments.

Unplanned but otherwise straightforward pregnancy. Pre-eclampsia and induction. Difficult labour without pain relief. Episiotomy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 19 >> She would like the NHS to provide more specialised support for breastfeeding, especially for women having their first baby.

Successful pregnancy after an early miscarriage and blighted ovum. Caesarean due to baby lying breech. Lack of support for breastfeeding in hospital due to pressures on staff.

• >> Pregnancy >> Other conditions in pregnancy >> Other conditions in pregnancy

Other conditions in pregnancy

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Other conditions in pregnancy >> Other conditions in pregnancy

Other conditions in pregnancy

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 56 >> Describes how she and her partner felt about the responsibility of deciding to have a baby.

Two normal pregnancies. Felt well supported by midwives in making birthing choices. First birth was a water birth in hospital; hopes to have the same for second birth. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 25.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 04 >> She wanted to have her children close together so she planned an 18-month gap.

Normal pregnancy. Breech presentation resolved through successful ECV. Induction at 42 weeks. Forceps delivery. Difficulty with breastfeeding. Importance of managing expectations of pregnancy and birth realistically.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 12 >> They had been trying on and off to get pregnant but not very seriously, so they felt a bit taken aback when it happened.

Normal first pregnancy. Premature labour and birth at 33 weeks. Had to transfer to another hospital because no neonatal intensive care places were available locally.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 60 >> Before every pregnancy they stopped taking precautions but have never said they were actively trying for a baby.

After four miscarriages, baby in fifth pregnancy diagnosed with heart condition. Mother (who is diabetic) had pre-eclampsia and emergency caesarean. Severe sickness in every pregnancy. Interviewed during sixth pregnancy, and again after a stillbirth at 36 weeks. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 29.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 34-36 >> Interview 16 >> After three unexplained miscarriages and treatment for low fertility with clomifene (Clomid), she joined an egg donation scheme which enabled her to h

Experienced recurrent miscarriage before entering an egg share IVF scheme. IVF was successful after one cycle and pregnancy was excellent. Vaginal birth.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 40 + >> Interview 09 >> The first symptom of pregnancy was a strange taste in her mouth, before she knew she was pregnant.

First pregnancy normal, emergency caesarean after long labour. Next two pregnancies ended in early miscarriage. Now pregnant again and planning vaginal birth. (Interviewed again after vaginal birth).

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 31 >> It took fourteen years to get pregnant, but the baby had a genetic condition and was stillborn. She gave up hope but became pregnant again. (Read by a

Her first, long awaited baby was stillborn at 25 weeks. Her second pregnancy was normal, but an accident at 20 weeks made it an anxious time. Birth was induced, with epidural.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 32 >> She never thought she would have children, but once she was told she did not have multiple sclerosis after all she and her husband decided to try for

Mother who uses a wheelchair. Antenatal care from a special pregnancy unit because of her condition. Emergency caesarean. Serious complications following a mistake in managing her medication.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 33 >> Because she has epilepsy she talked to her neurologist and a genetics counsellor before trying for a baby.

Mother who has epilepsy, cared for during her first pregnancy by a Special Pregnancy Unit. Developed pre-eclampsia and had induction with epidural at 37 weeks.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 03 >> She expected to have problems conceiving because of endometriosis (problems with the lining of the uterus), but conceived naturally after surgery.

Apparently normal pregnancy, after problems with endometriosis. Vasa praevia discovered during labour. Baby needed resuscitation and intensive care, but recovered well with no long-term problems as originally feared.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 34-36 >> Interview 08 >> Having had a miscarriage made her very keen to get pregnant again to prove to herself she could have a healthy pregnancy. (Read by an actor.)

Initial miscarriage followed by second pregnancy, when a scan revealed baby was affected by tuberous sclerosis. Late termination. Subsequent pregnancy by donor insemination led to birth of a healthy child.

• Condition
• >> Pregnancy >> Pregnancy

Publication date: October 2005         Last updated August 2010

Review date: August 2012

 

We interviewed 51 people (including some male partners) about their experiences of pregnancy. Select from the key topics below, choose from the full list of topics, or explore all the interviews.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Pregnancy

Publication date: October 2005         Last updated August 2010

Review date: August 2012

 

We interviewed 51 people (including some male partners) about their experiences of pregnancy. Select from the key topics below, choose from the full list of topics, or explore all the interviews.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 24 >> It was exciting to discover she was pregnant, but hard to imagine herself having a baby.

Became pregnant in a another country where care philosophy was very interventionist. Returned to UK at 7 months and had a successful home birth with an independent midwife.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 34-36 >> Interview 16 >> After IVF, they were so anxious and excited they did the pregnancy test in the middle of the night and immediately phoned family to tell them. Only on

Experienced recurrent miscarriage before entering an egg share IVF scheme. IVF was successful after one cycle and pregnancy was excellent. Vaginal birth.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 40 + >> Interview 09 >> The first symptom of pregnancy was a strange taste in her mouth, before she knew she was pregnant.

First pregnancy normal, emergency caesarean after long labour. Next two pregnancies ended in early miscarriage. Now pregnant again and planning vaginal birth. (Interviewed again after vaginal birth).

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 34-36 >> Interview 28 >> They could hardly believe the pregnancy test was positive and had to repeat it. He was so happy he did not care England had lost at football.

Supported partner through fertility treatment and pregnancy. Is looking forward to becoming a father.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 33 >> She was surprised the GP did not do another pregnancy test and told her to come back at 10 weeks.

Mother who has epilepsy, cared for during her first pregnancy by a Special Pregnancy Unit. Developed pre-eclampsia and had induction with epidural at 37 weeks.

• >> Pregnancy >> Pregnancy with another condition or disability >> Pregnancy with another condition or disability

Pregnancy with another condition or disability

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Pregnancy with another condition or disability >> Pregnancy with another condition or disability

Pregnancy with another condition or disability

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 26 >> Even though she knew her baby Oscar might not live, she went to antenatal yoga classes for his sake. (Read by an actor.)

Baby diagnosed with diaphragmatic hernia at 20-week scan. Mother decided to continue the pregnancy, knowing the outcome was uncertain. Baby died 10 hours after birth.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 34-36 >> Interview 05 >> She panicked when the midwife took her second baby away to give her a rest. The midwife did not understand that this reminded her of being separated f

First child had heart defect detected antenatally and long period of critical illness after birth. Mother had reactive depression in response to his illness. Second child healthy. Mother had postnatal depression related to extreme worry about her health.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 34-36 >> Interview 05 >> She went back to work after her son's health improved, but became depressed. Counselling helped her come to terms with her feelings about motherhood.

First child had heart defect detected antenatally and long period of critical illness after birth. Mother had reactive depression in response to his illness. Second child healthy. Mother had postnatal depression related to extreme worry about her health.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 40 + >> Interview 09 >> It is hard to imagine what it will be like having a new baby and a toddler.

First pregnancy normal, emergency caesarean after long labour. Next two pregnancies ended in early miscarriage. Now pregnant again and planning vaginal birth. (Interviewed again after vaginal birth).

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 25 >> She gave up work in one pregnancy to reduce the risk of another miscarriage. With her second child she carried on working but changed her hours.

First and most recent pregnancy ended in miscarriage. Two normal pregnancies in between, with severe sickness both times. Good support from Early Pregnancy Unit.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 40 + >> Interview 09 >> After an emergency caesarean first time, she wants to try a vaginal birth next time.

First pregnancy normal, emergency caesarean after long labour. Next two pregnancies ended in early miscarriage. Now pregnant again and planning vaginal birth. (Interviewed again after vaginal birth).

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 04 >> She wanted to have her children close together so she planned an 18-month gap.

Normal pregnancy. Breech presentation resolved through successful ECV. Induction at 42 weeks. Forceps delivery. Difficulty with breastfeeding. Importance of managing expectations of pregnancy and birth realistically.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 31 >> When she became pregnant again, they decided not to tell many people till they knew the baby was all right. (Read by an actor.)

Her first, long awaited baby was stillborn at 25 weeks. Her second pregnancy was normal, but an accident at 20 weeks made it an anxious time. Birth was induced, with epidural.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 04 >> She expected more reaction from the midwife to the news she was pregnant. More informal contact during the early weeks would have been reassuring.

Normal pregnancy. Breech presentation resolved through successful ECV. Induction at 42 weeks. Forceps delivery. Difficulty with breastfeeding. Importance of managing expectations of pregnancy and birth realistically.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 02 >> Shared care between her midwife and a specialist unit for complex pregnancies has been excellent. (Her spleen was removed in childhood.)

Normal first pregnancy. Additional scanning and care in specialist unit because of previous splenectomy. Mother has higher susceptibility to illness and infection.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 60 >> She had one early miscarriage and three missed abortions. Every time she still felt pregnant but there was no heartbeat at the scan.

After four miscarriages, baby in fifth pregnancy diagnosed with heart condition. Mother (who is diabetic) had pre-eclampsia and emergency caesarean. Severe sickness in every pregnancy. Interviewed during sixth pregnancy, and again after a stillbirth at 36 weeks. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 29.

• >> Pregnancy >> Pregnancy

Publication date: October 2005         Last updated August 2010

Review date: August 2012

 

We interviewed 51 people (including some male partners) about their experiences of pregnancy. Select from the key topics below, choose from the full list of topics, or explore all the interviews.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Pregnancy

Publication date: October 2005         Last updated August 2010

Review date: August 2012

 

We interviewed 51 people (including some male partners) about their experiences of pregnancy. Select from the key topics below, choose from the full list of topics, or explore all the interviews.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 12 >> She was upset that her GP advised her to avoid antihistamines in pregnancy but then prescribed them for a rash.

Normal first pregnancy. Premature labour and birth at 33 weeks. Had to transfer to another hospital because no neonatal intensive care places were available locally.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 34-36 >> Interview 52 >> She was disappointed she had to stop exercising because of symphysis pubis disorder.

Normal first pregnancy; some bleeding early in first trimester. Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (pelvic pain) has been a problem later in pregnancy. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 21.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 32 >> She was very sick every morning for about twenty minutes and then fine the rest of the day.

Mother who uses a wheelchair. Antenatal care from a special pregnancy unit because of her condition. Emergency caesarean. Serious complications following a mistake in managing her medication.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 31 >> Feeling sick all day was horrible and she had to take time off work. Ginger ale helped a bit. (Read by an actor.)

Her first, long awaited baby was stillborn at 25 weeks. Her second pregnancy was normal, but an accident at 20 weeks made it an anxious time. Birth was induced, with epidural.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 33 >> Because hunger triggers her epilepsy, it was important that she should not get too sick. Her epilepsy drugs actually helped reduce sickness.

Mother who has epilepsy, cared for during her first pregnancy by a Special Pregnancy Unit. Developed pre-eclampsia and had induction with epidural at 37 weeks.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 60 >> She cannot believe that hyperemesis could be psychological. It is a recognised illness in pregnancy.

After four miscarriages, baby in fifth pregnancy diagnosed with heart condition. Mother (who is diabetic) had pre-eclampsia and emergency caesarean. Severe sickness in every pregnancy. Interviewed during sixth pregnancy, and again after a stillbirth at 36 weeks. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 29.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 15 >> The hospital could not explain her severe abdominal pain. Her GP suggested it could be irritable bowel syndrome. Changing her diet helped.

Confusion in early stages of pregnancy about whether or not it was viable. Unexplained abdominal pain. Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (pelvic pain) in latter stages.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 34-36 >> Interview 52 >> She developed symphysis pubis disorder (pelvic joint pain). She went to physiotherapy and wore a support belt.

Normal first pregnancy; some bleeding early in first trimester. Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (pelvic pain) has been a problem later in pregnancy. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 21.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 13 >> She had very painful symphysis pubis disorder (pelvic joint pain) and used a back brace and crutches. She has now fully recovered. (Played by an actor

Young, single mother. Pregnancy unplanned. Well supported by family. Had Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (pelvic pain) and cholestasis (liver problem) during pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 55 >> The midwife did not recognise how much pain she was in from symphysis pubis disorder (pelvic joint pain).

Persuaded to have induction in first pregnancy; felt unsupported by staff. Labour was long and painful. Second birth, refused induction, insisted on additional checks instead. A better experience, with a doula (birthing attendant). More of this interview can be seen on the DIPEX antenatal screening site as Interview 02.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 40 + >> Interview 09 >> She had back pain, gastric reflux and sleep problems in later pregnancy. She had to go to the loo several times a night.

First pregnancy normal, emergency caesarean after long labour. Next two pregnancies ended in early miscarriage. Now pregnant again and planning vaginal birth. (Interviewed again after vaginal birth).

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 33 >> Being uncomfortable in bed made it difficult to sleep. She would just do something else till she felt sleepy again.

Mother who has epilepsy, cared for during her first pregnancy by a Special Pregnancy Unit. Developed pre-eclampsia and had induction with epidural at 37 weeks.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 07 >> In the first months of pregnancy she felt completely exhausted and needed lots of sleep. (Read by an actor.)

Unplanned pregnancy after graduating from university. Supported by partner but felt a lack of institutional support for young, unmarried women. Looking forward to balancing motherhood with a career.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 44 >> The early symptoms of pregnancy felt like pre-menstrual symptoms. She was worried by abdominal cramps, but eventually found out this was normal in pre

4 months pregnant. Some nausea and cramping in early pregnancy. Plans for a hospital birth. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 05.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 20 >> She noticed changes in her breasts in early pregnancy, and things began to taste strange. At first it felt like pre-menstrual symptoms which then disa

Single mother. First pregnancy miscarried. Second pregnancy was normal and straightforward. She planned to have a natural birth, but after a long labour chose to have a caesarean.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 06 >> She developed bloating, sharp pain and sickness in early pregnancy. This was caused by ovarian hyper-stimulation syndrome resulting from IVF.

First pregnancy through ICSI IVF. Experienced hyper ovarian stimulation. Induced at 42 weeks with birth by emergency section. Second pregnancy occurred naturally 7 months after birth of first child.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 01 >> At nine weeks, she experienced bleeding and severe pain, and an ectopic pregnancy was suspected. A scan showed the baby was fine and the pain went awa

Normal pregnancy apart from episode of severe pain (suspected ectopic) and high blood sugar. Caesarean birth. Was not able to breastfeed. Recovery from caesarean took longer than expected.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 40 + >> Interview 09 >> The first symptom of pregnancy was a strange taste in her mouth, before she knew she was pregnant.

First pregnancy normal, emergency caesarean after long labour. Next two pregnancies ended in early miscarriage. Now pregnant again and planning vaginal birth. (Interviewed again after vaginal birth).

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 24 >> It was exciting to discover she was pregnant, but hard to imagine herself having a baby.

Became pregnant in a another country where care philosophy was very interventionist. Returned to UK at 7 months and had a successful home birth with an independent midwife.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 20 >> Discovering she was pregnant unexpectedly made her reassess some aspects of her life, but she knew she wanted to keep the baby. (Read by an actor.)

Single mother. First pregnancy miscarried. Second pregnancy was normal and straightforward. She planned to have a natural birth, but after a long labour chose to have a caesarean.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 04 >> She wanted to have her children close together so she planned an 18-month gap.

Normal pregnancy. Breech presentation resolved through successful ECV. Induction at 42 weeks. Forceps delivery. Difficulty with breastfeeding. Importance of managing expectations of pregnancy and birth realistically.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 37-39 >> Interview 60 >> Before every pregnancy they stopped taking precautions but have never said they were actively trying for a baby.

After four miscarriages, baby in fifth pregnancy diagnosed with heart condition. Mother (who is diabetic) had pre-eclampsia and emergency caesarean. Severe sickness in every pregnancy. Interviewed during sixth pregnancy, and again after a stillbirth at 36 weeks. More of this interview can be seen on the Healthtalkonline antenatal screening site as Interview 29.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 31-33 >> Interview 12 >> They had been trying on and off to get pregnant but not very seriously, so they felt a bit taken aback when it happened.

Normal first pregnancy. Premature labour and birth at 33 weeks. Had to transfer to another hospital because no neonatal intensive care places were available locally.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 20 >> Discovering she was pregnant unexpectedly made her reassess some aspects of her life, but she knew she wanted to keep the baby. (Read by an actor.)

Single mother. First pregnancy miscarried. Second pregnancy was normal and straightforward. She planned to have a natural birth, but after a long labour chose to have a caesarean.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Age 25-30 >> Interview 20 >> Previous experience of miscarriage made her more determined to go ahead with her next pregnancy, even though it was unplanned. (Read by an actor.)

Single mother. First pregnancy miscarried. Second pregnancy was normal and straightforward. She planned to have a natural birth, but after a long labour chose to have a caesarean.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 17 >> She found antenatal classes embarrassing, especially as she did not have a partner to go with.

Single mother of two. First child born by emergency caesarean, second by elective caesarean. Faced unhelpful assumptions because she was young and single.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 13 >> For the first few weeks she felt she did not want the baby, but seeing the baby at the first scan was a real turning point. (Played by an actor.)

Young, single mother. Pregnancy unplanned. Well supported by family. Had Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (pelvic pain) and cholestasis (liver problem) during pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 07 >> Early on, her main worry was how she would manage financially. (Read by an actor.)

Unplanned pregnancy after graduating from university. Supported by partner but felt a lack of institutional support for young, unmarried women. Looking forward to balancing motherhood with a career.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 22 >> Getting pregnant when she was very young led her to break off the relationship with her boyfriend. She considered adoption but changed her mind after

Unplanned pregnancy at age 15. Pregnancy normal. Part of placenta retained after birth resulting in heavy bleeding. Coping well with motherhood.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 07 >> When she discovered she was pregnant unexpectedly it was hard to tell her family, but they were supportive. (Read by an actor.)

Unplanned pregnancy after graduating from university. Supported by partner but felt a lack of institutional support for young, unmarried women. Looking forward to balancing motherhood with a career.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 13 >> Discovering she was pregnant unexpectedly was a big shock - she was upset to have to cancel plans to join the army to train as a nurse. (Played by an

Young, single mother. Pregnancy unplanned. Well supported by family. Had Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (pelvic pain) and cholestasis (liver problem) during pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Pregnancy >> Aged 24 & under >> Interview 07 >> She worried whether smoking and drinking before she realised she was pregnant had harmed the baby. (Read by an actor.)

Unplanned pregnancy after graduating from university. Supported by partner but felt a lack of institutional support for young, unmarried women. Looking forward to balancing motherhood with a career.