I know we've all had our share of ups and downs with health care providers, but a recent thread prompted me to reflect on the fact that my birthing experiences have been overwhelmingly positive, and all in the public health system, moreover. I felt like sharing some of my more memorable moments, so I hope you'll indulge me

With #2, I explained to the midwives at the hospital that birth #1 had been over-managed and frightening, and although I was again being induced, I really wanted as gentle an experience as I could manage. They looked after me so well, wouldn't let the doctor anywhere near me, wouldn't let anyone do internal exams, and encouraged me all the way through. It was a great, empowering experience. The only time a doctor touched me was to do one tiny stitch after birth.

With #3, I had this amazing midwife who basically just sat and watched for most of the labour, letting me and dh get on with it. She never left the room, but said things like, "You are amazing, you are doing such a good job!" When I was a bit overwhelmed during transition, she suggested a quick internal and told me I was 8cm and had a bit of a "lip" so I was able to decide to get on my hands and knees for a bit, and then the baby was born in the next few contractions. I had to transfer to our local hospital on day #1 for post natal care and they let me stay seven days in a private room, and since I was the only post natal patient, they lavished attention on me!

I didn't really see anyone while I was labouring with #4 as the labour was only two hours and they were understaffed, but when the actual delivery was imminent, the midwives were very respectful of the fact that I was an experienced mother and wanted to help me achieve anything I said I wanted.

With #5, the midwives were again really positive and encouraging, I had no internals, and although the doctor had insisted on continuous foetal monitoring, they did everything in their power to keep me upright and moving and to assist what I wanted, including a hands and knees delivery. The post natal care was exemplary - they encouraged me to stay a day later than normal, and their breastfeeding support was just fantastic.