Just re-reading that last bit Sarah, and I wouldn't be surprised if the staff change over had something to do with it, cause you had to start all over again with a new midwife kwim? You would have gotten into a 'routine' with the one you already had and it could have put you off your groove.

As for the next time, you've probably thought about a private midwife/doula to keep the continuity already have you? It could be the difference to what gets you through.