A mum of three who has recently had her second home birth has praised Walsall’s Community Midwives for helping to make it another “wonderful experience.”

Little Airyn arrived at her family’s Bloxwich home on Sunday 22 March at 8.14am, weighing 8 pounds 8 ounces.

She is the third daughter for Sharni and Stephen Yates, and joins proud big sisters Avery, four and Aneira, who is just about to turn two.

“We had such a positive experience last time when Aneira was born, I knew from the get-go that I wanted another home birth,” explained Sharni, 34, a secondary school teacher.

“And it was another wonderful experience this time round too. I had another water birth, and I’d like to highlight how good Walsall’s Community Midwives are.

“I was actually 41 plus 4 weeks so out of guidelines for a home birth, but Rhoda Flynn (Consultant Midwife) completely supported my wishes, as had my Community Midwife Kaylie Burke throughout my pregnancy. Walsall Community Midwives carefully assessed any perceived risks with respecting my wishes to obtain the best outcome.

“When the time came Kirsty Westwood and Ceri-Ann Turner attended the birth. Ceri-Ann was at Aneira’s birth so it was a lovely sense of Deja-vu and was already someone I had trust in. The continuity of care allowed me to relax and just enjoy my experience, although I’ve yet to meet a Community Midwife who hasn’t made me feel supported and safe – we are very lucky in Walsall.

“I once again felt in control, felt my wishes were being respected and felt as though everyone was working with me to ensure the best birth experience.

“It was really special for me to be able to have a home birth as I was able to make it as relaxing as possible and I didn’t need any medicinal pain relief – partly, I believe, because I felt so secure and supported, and I had 100% trust in my Midwives to keep me and my baby safe.”

Sharni, whose husband Stephen is a software developer, added Aneira in particular, named in honour of the founder of the NHS Aneurin “Nye” Bevan, was “doting” on the new arrival, whilst Avery is taking great joy in demonstrating how to be a big sister again.

“Our girls have already bonded with Airyn, and her arrival has created another special memory for our family.”