Hi alioops,

I had my first daughter in April 2006 and my biggest regret was not setting down some ground rules before to family. My mother was at the hospital about 10min after DH called - he tried to tell her not to come in but she turned up (stubborn), so DH told his parents to come in too.

Within an hour of having my daughter - I had my mum, In-laws & brother in-law all standing around the bed.

I was so sick vomitting into a kidney dish, I was still laying in all the blood/yukky stuff, vomit on the floor (which they had to step over to get to me) and a catherder bag full of urine. I hadn't had a chance to spend quality time with my daughter. It was horrible!!!

I am due to have my second baby on 20th August and have laid down the ground rules very clearly....with all family. I know my mum is a put out that she can't come in until I am up in the maternity ward, showered, rested, spent time with baby and breastfed. I told her that I will call her myself when I am ready to tell her the news and that she can come in.

Some advice, set the ground rules and make it very clear. You may feel great after delivery and can't wait to see people or you could be tired, sick and need time to recover & spend some quality time with your little baby in the first few hours.

Good luck
Al