Hi again,

I am the lady that had such an anxious time making my decision about having an amnio or not. For those of you that did read my thread - thank you so much as you were all very caring and supportive.

Anyway, getting onto my next chat I would like to let everyone know that the day after receiving the prelim results from the amnio, which by the way are great, (YAY!!) Full results in another week. I also received some other fantastic news!! I have been accepted into the BIRTHING CENTRE at the Royal Brisbane Hospital. I couldn't believe it - I was and am so happy as I have heard such wonderful things about the additional one on one care that you receive with your midwife and other attending staff.

So yesterday I had an appointment to see the birthing centre and have everything explained to me which was great. My midwife won't be allocated to me until about a wks time (I am due mid Dec). Anyway, I love how your dp or dh is able to stay with you overnight in a comfy double bed when you have given birth, I love how you are encouraged to do whatever it is in any position to give birth whether it be on a mattress on the floor on all fours, squatting, in the shower etc. But, I especially loved the possibility of having a water birth in your very own private huge bath in your room. Of course, natural birth is encouraged but there are options if needed. There are only 4 birthing rooms so I feel particularly blessed that I was able to get one of the highly sort after places. As it is a ballot system for this facility I really didn't think that I would be that lucky. Woohoo!! I was and am!!

Once I have my midwife allocated to me I will have another appointment at the Birthing Centre to meet her, so that we can start building the relationship between us which will be so important not only for the birth of my much longed for and loved little baby girl (YES I AM HAVING A GIRL)but also for additional support and guidance after I go home.

Well everyone, it was a truly great beginning yesterday at the Birthing Centre so if you are considering it as an option just simply get a referral from your doctor stating your risk factor, age and general health etc and fax it off to the Birthing Centre. I faxed my request off at 14 - 15 wks. If you are accepted you can still decline if it isn't for you so why not keep all your options open.

BIg smiles to you all until next time, Nicole