1. How many exams did you have during pregnancy & labour?

None in pg, three in labour - one when my OB arrived, as I'd had PROM, one by my mid to check my progress when I was 7cm (in the bath), and another by my OB when my DS was malpositioned and 'stuck'.

2. How did you feel about them in pregnancy & labour?

Did not want any during pg, but it was never needed. Was happy to have a minimal amount during labour to check my progress.

3. Did your carer explain the procedure to you and why they were doing it?

Yes, it was always explained to me, and I was completely comfortable with having each VE.

4. Did you feel that your carer did too many or more than you would have liked? Did you feel they were justified?

I was happy with the amount. Probably didn't really need the one at 7cm, but it made me happy to know I'd gotten that far without pain relief, so it was worthwhile IMO. I feel the other two exams were justified, the first to check that I was in established (premature) labour, the second to reposition my baby.