Hartlepool mum gives birth after going for a beach walk with other mums-to-be

Lyndsey Lee had been planning to join other pregnant women on the Beach Bumps walk by Hartlepool’s seaside when she started to experience mild contractions.

As she was not experiencing any discomfort, Lyndsey still joined the group that morning.

Yet – less than 24 hours later – she was in the midwife-led Rowan Suite at the University Hospital of Hartlepool giving birth to new daughter Ayda Quinn Lee.

Lyndsey, 34, and partner Anthony are full of praise for the service and the beach walks.

Lyndsey said: “I had been along to Beach Bumps once before. It was really enjoyable and an opportunity to get out and speak to other mums-to-be.

“On the day of the walk, I was starting to experience some contractions. The next day I went in to the unit at 4.30am and had Ayda four hours later.

“It was a fantastic experience being there. It was such a comfortable and relaxed environment with a fantastic team of midwives.”

The Rowan suite opened earlier this year is also a supporter of the continuity of carer programme which ensures women are seen by the same midwife throughout their pregnancy.

Lyndsey added: “The continuity of carer service was fantastic for me.

“My midwife Caroline was amazing throughout the pregnancy. She was always there for me if I had a question or a query – and, being a first time mum, I had lots!

“And giving birth in Hartlepool was something which was so special. I was born in the old Cameron’s Hospital in the town – it is lovely Ayda was also born in the town.

“Knowing the hospital was only 10 minutes from my house was so important to me and the facility is fantastic.

“As well as this, the after-care was fantastic – with advice and support around important things such as breastfeeding.”

Caroline Wood, who was Lyndsey’s named midwife, said: “I am delighted women like Lyndsey – with her gorgeous daughter Ayda – have benefited from continuity of carer in Hartlepool, as well as having the choice to give birth in the town. It was pleasure to be with Lyndsey and Ayda throughout their pregnancy, birth and postpartum.”

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