What you can expect from your health service postnatally

In the UK, comprehensive postnatal care is available through the NHS to support the health and wellbeing of mother and baby during the weeks and months following childbirth. Your local healthcare team is there to support you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out to them.

Here is an overview of the wide-ranging support your local healthcare team can provide during the early postpartum period and beyond.

Midwife and GP support following childbirth

Mother and baby check in hospital

The “discharge check” is a comprehensive assessment that typically occurs before you and your baby leave the hospital or birthing centre. It ensures that both you and your baby are healthy, and that you are ready to continue your recovery at home. During this check, healthcare professionals assess various aspects of maternal and neonatal health. This includes a complete physical examination, monitoring of vital signs, breastfeeding support, pain management, and postnatal recovery.

They also provide guidance on caring for your newborn, such as feeding,  nappy changing, and safe sleep practices. In addition, discharge checks may include discussions about postnatal mental health, contraception options, and follow-up appointments with healthcare professionals.

The goal is to make sure you and your baby are well-supported and have all the necessary information and resources to manage a smooth transition to home life and ongoing postnatal care. You should be given a red book that contains all relevant medical information about your baby that you can bring to all your future appointments.

Midwife checks

Postnatal midwife check-ups are essential for monitoring both your and your baby’s ongoing health and wellbeing after childbirth. Here’s what you can typically expect during these appointments:

• Maternal health assessment
  Your midwife will conduct a thorough assessment of your physical recovery, including monitoring your blood pressure, checking for signs of infection, and evaluating any wounds or stitches from childbirth.
  
• Emotional support
  Postnatal check-ups provide a safe space to discuss any emotional or psychological challenges you may be experiencing, such as postnatal depression or anxiety. Your midwife can offer support, guidance, and referrals to appropriate mental health services if needed.
  
• Infant health monitoring
  Ensuring the health and development of your newborn is a top priority for your midwife during the postnatal period. They will focus on two main areas of your baby’s health: First, your midwife will monitor your baby’s growth and development closely, including weight gain, feeding patterns, and developmental milestones like rolling over, sitting up, and babbling.
  
  Secondly, the baby will receive vaccinations according to the NHS immunisation schedule to protect against various diseases. These are usually administered at specific ages and are crucial for your baby’s long-term health. Your midwife will make sure your baby gets these vaccinations on time and can give you information and explain why they are important. Most vaccinations will be given at your GP surgery.

Mother and baby check by a GP

GP appointments during the postnatal period also monitor the health and wellbeing of you and your baby as you adjust. These usually happen 8 weeks after giving birth and allow healthcare professionals to assess your physical and emotional recovery, as well as the growth and development of your newborn.

Your GP may address a range of concerns, including postnatal recovery, breastfeeding support, infant feeding issues, and maternal mental health. They may also provide guidance on contraception options, pelvic floor muscle exercises, and nutrition for you and the baby. These appointments are a good opportunity to discuss any concerns or questions you may have and get personalised care and support.

Breastfeeding support

Breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial way to nourish your baby, but it can also come with challenges. Your health service provides support and guidance to help you breastfeed if you wish to, including:

• Lactation consultants: If you’re experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding, lactation consultants are available to provide advice, assistance, and practical tips to improve breastfeeding latch and milk supply.
  
• Breastfeeding clinics: Many health services offer breastfeeding clinics where you can receive support from trained professionals and connect with other breastfeeding mothers for peer support and encouragement.

Parenting advice and support

Local health service resources that can help you navigate the early days of parenthood include:

• Parenting classes: NHS parenting classes cover topics such as newborn care, feeding and sleep routines, infant safety, and postnatal exercise for mothers.
  
• Health visiting services: Health visitors provide home visits and support to families with young children, offering advice on parenting, child development, and accessing community resources.