Congratulations! Now that your baby has arrived you have begun one of life’s greatest journeys—the journey of parenthood, with all its joy and wonder.
Your body will undergo many changes both physically and emotionally. Many of these changes happen in the first few months following the birth of your baby. This time is called the postnatal period, postpartum period, or the ‘fourth trimester’. It is also a time of great change for your baby as they adjust to being outside the womb, and you adjust to your new life as a parent. These changes are signs that your body is restoring itself to its’ non-pregnant state and to enable you to feed your baby.
After your baby is born, it is important for you to spend quiet time together as a family getting to know your new baby. A newborn baby can feel small and fragile and there is much to learn about caring for your baby.
Use your time in hospital to enjoy your new baby and learn how to provide care. The midwives and nurses are there for you to offer information and advice on all manner of topics that will be helpful when you are at home. During your stay, midwives and nurses will provide education and information to enable you to confidently care for yourself and your baby in preparation for going home.
Taking your baby home from hospital is an exciting time. If your pregnancy and birth have been uncomplicated, you can expect to go home when safe to do so.
For uncomplicated vaginal births discharge can occur from 6 hours post birth and Caesarean Sections can be discharged from 26-48 hours post birth. There may be occasions where your midwife or doctor may recommend a longer stay in hospital and your discharge date may be altered according to your needs.
At the end of your hospital stay we aim where possible for a discharge time of 10am.