20 years ago, I was given a tour of the maternity ward before the birth of my daughter. The first room I was shown as I was walked into the ward on the right, was the Bereavement Suite.

Both of my children were born at Northampton General hospital. My daughter was born in March 2006 and my son January 2008. My daughter was in back-to-back position. Meconium was present. I was screaming that I wanted to die because the pain was horrendous. I was given pethidine with no effect

I had a healthy pregnancy until I reached 36 weeks, when a scan found the baby was on the bigger side. I went into labour nine days before my due date, and was repeatedly turned away from the hospital until eventually being admitted. I was given medication for raised blood pressure, as well as gas and air, which did nothing for the pain.

I’m Chloe and I'm 31 years old. I had my daughter in 2020 during the COVID pandemic. I suffer with PTSD due to the birth trauma and it’s extremely hard now as I am expecting my second daughter later this year.

My partner and I decided to start trying for a baby and were very lucky to fall pregnant quite quickly. I had morning sickness but I was never sick – a very normal and healthy pregnancy. I never made a birth plan to save disappointment and my midwife fully supported this.

After having IVF and a rough pregnancy, something I now realise they don't prepare you for is if complications arise during labour.