Postnatal guidance at home is the care of the woman and her baby during the period from birth to approximately 6 weeks postnatal. It is focused on the health, wellbeing and recovery of the woman and the health, well being and development of the baby. One cannot be considered in isolation to the other and the transition of the woman to a confident, competent mother is an intrinsic part of the process.
Individual aspects of postnatal guidance at home include the general recovery of the woman in terms of physical adaptation and the establishment of breastfeeding. The woman is quite vulnerable in the early days and may need close support. She will need support and advice with her diet and rest; lack of sleep can be challenging and may affect her mood, this, coupled with hormone changes may lead to mental health issues.
The baby needs frequent and effective feeding coupled with close attention from his/her mother. Issues around weight gain, jaundice, sleep, settling etc will all be of importance.
Overall the aim of postnatal guidance at home should be to support the woman as she becomes a mother and learns to trust herself and her baby.
Neighbourhood Midwives offer two packages of postnatal care in and around London and Hampshire, each providing continuity of care with your own known midwife. Each offers frequent visits in the first week (daily for 4-5 days) and then continues with visits for up to 2 weeks ( the Sunflower) or 6 weeks (the Lavender). During this time your midwife will also be available to you by phone for any concerns or worries. She will help you to recognise what is normal and to understand your baby’s needs. She has excellent breastfeeding skills and will support you in becoming confident in breastfeeding. She will monitor your baby’s weight gain and offer advice on improving feeding if needed. She will ensure that you feel well recovered and confident before discharge.
All of the midwives are partners, just like John Lewis we are employee owned so every one of us really cares about the service and care that women receive. We have robust standards of clinical excellence and have been CQC registered and inspected. Our midwives are always up to date with the latest training and techniques, we have our own specialist lactation consultant and tongue tie specialists. However, the most important aspect is that we provide kind, caring and respectful care based around the needs of each woman and her family.
For more information about our professional and friendly postnatal guidance at home in London and Hampshire, please speak with a member of our team on 020 8874 6624. Alternatively, visit our packages page.