GIVING birth in hospital is something millions of women do each day, but delivering your own daughter during a routine trip to the loo is something one Wirral mum had not been expecting.

Beccy McDowell, from Leasowe, and husband Peter had planned on having a water birth at Arrowe Park Hospital for their second child.

But Aoife – who was four days overdue – had other ideas, making her journey into the world in dramatic fashion.

Beccy, who is also mum to two-year-old Fionnula, had been waiting for her labour to progress further before the birthing pool could be filled when she decided to visit the toilet.

It was there that the 32-year-old was faced with the biggest shock of her life – Aoife’s head.

“I found out I was actually much further along than expected and after discovering a head, I delivered my own daughter – the sheer shock caused me to drop her into the toilet,” said Beccy.

“The staff, my mother and husband were all gobsmacked at what they found when I shouted them in the toilet and my husband managed to capture a picture of a thousand expressions.”

Wirral Globe:
Mum Beccy and dad Pete with baby Aoife and sister Fionnula.

Beccy added: “It was the biggest shock and joy I have ever experienced.”

Although the delivery was a little more dramatic than expected, the McDowell family are now enjoying their latest addition.

The family has nothing but praise for those on hand during their stay at Arrowe Park.

Beccy said: “The midwives and all the hospital staff were fantastic in looking after both me and my daughter both before and after the birth and I would like to thank all the staff for the love and care they gave to me, my baby, husband and mother.

“They were not only professional but also treated us with genuine care and support, making sure both mother and baby were more than looked after.” 

Debbie Edwards, who is the head of midwifery at the hospital said: “This certainly isn’t our first unusual time or place for a baby to choose to arrive.

"We recently had one arrive in the hospital car park so we’re geared up to ‘expect the unexpected’ and respond accordingly.  As soon as Aoife made an appearance our staff swung into action and were able to ensure mum and baby were safe and well.

“We’re delighted that mum felt she and her baby were so well looked after and all of the team who cared for them send their best wishes.”