Going from DB to Matilda when in labour?

This is my first pregnancy. I live in Discovery Bay and I have booked to deliver at Matilda hospital. Can anyone share her experience in terms of going to he hospital when labour started? How did you get there (ferry, taxi from Tung Chung, ambulance etc)? The night ferries have been cut recently. Or is it recommended to stay on Hong Kong Island around the due date?

There are apartments on site at the hospital if you would feel more comfortable staying closer near to your due date. For information you can check out our website or call our client relations manager on 2849 0355 to find out more about the rates and availability and take a look around.


Lynne 2849 0328

Matilda International Hospital

Hong Kong

http://www.matilda.org

Dear Lynn,


That is not an option for me (for financial reason), but thank you. What is your experience with first time moms who go into labour and deliver at Matilda and living in DB? Surely you get this on a regular basis?

Hi Yuy,


I am a second time mum and I understand your fears - because I was exactly the same.


I also live in deepest, darkest DB and both our babies were born at the Matilda. We used to live in Central so when I was pregnant with our first baby I wasn't nervous. We moved to DB after the birth of our first babe, however as the birth of our second baby drew near I became increasingly nervous about getting to the hospital.

In order to counter my fears, I tried to 'take control' by arranging to be induced 4 days before the due date. Well, the baby was not aware of this and decided to call time 6 days before the due date.

My waters broke at 7:00am. We called the Matilda and when we explained we were in DB the mid-wife said to come straight away. We caught the next available ferry and then a taxi and I was sitting up in bed in the delivery room by 9:00am. My labour was fairly easy - had a mobile epi at 11:00am and gave birth around 4pm ish.

Unfortunately, there isn't a lot you can do to quell your fears. But some things that might help are in the preparation - have your bag packed, your ferry ticket ready and some cash for the taxi. Have all of the numbers you need in your phone - the Matilda, the doctor etc. Call the Matilda if you are nervous and one of there very helpful mid-wives will be able to advise what you need to do (come now or wait).


Re: going into labour at night another option would be to arrange a hire car. The drive to the Matilda would take about an hour. Alternatively an ambulance can be called, but I think they have to drop you at a public hospital and then arrangements are made with the Matilda. Someone else might know the answer to this - I am not entirely sure.


All the best for the new baby.


G

Dear G.


I only see now that you have replied. Thank you for sharing. I understand from the midwife that there wil be plenty of time as this is my first time. I just hope that I realise early enough when my contractions start.


Thanks.