I went into labour with my first child on a Sunday morning, and managed well through the day at home. By the evening the contractions were becoming more painful, and being unsure, we went into hospital.

I was 17 when I found out I was pregnant. I was very shocked at first but always dreamed of having a beautiful baby and family so I decided to keep my blessing.

After a 10-year gap, the news had arrived. I was expecting my second child. I was extremely excited about it all, especially as I had recently completed my midwifery degree. I was confident this time round I knew my options and rights and I was determined to have full control over my birth. However, that is not exactly the way the story ended

When people hear the term PTSD, they think of a mental health condition that soldiers suffer after witnessing horrors of war. No one really believes that it can happen to a woman following the birth of her baby. Birth is supposed to be a glorious, life-changing event when precious memories are created that will be cherished of the rest of the woman’s life. But that wasn’t the case for me.

The next time somebody tells you that their baby's birth didn't go to plan, empathise and support her, because just because her baby is OK, that doesn’t mean she is.