Key Points

  • Rest and recovery are essential in the early weeks, so take time to get to know your baby.
  • Know where to seek support for breastfeeding, baby care, and recovery.
  • Midwives or child and family health nurses often visit you at home.
  • For breastfeeding help, contact a midwife, lactation consultant, or the National Breastfeeding Helpline at 1800 686 268.
  • Feeling emotional or experiencing the ‘baby blues’ is normal; if it persists, seek professional help.

After a Birth Centre or Hospital Birth

Going Home

  • After a birth centre delivery, you and your baby may go home the same day. For longer stays, transfers to a maternity hospital may occur.
  • In public or private hospitals, you’ll likely stay for at least 12 hours. Depending on your health and preference, early discharge may be an option.
  • Assisted births, caesareans, or babies needing extra care may require a 2-5 day hospital stay.
  • Premature babies usually stay longer in the NICU or special care nursery.

Before You Leave the Hospital
Ask about:

  • Breastfeeding support and home visits from a midwife.
  • Managing pain and when you can resume driving or lifting heavy items.
  • Stitches care after a caesarean and follow-up appointments.
  • Recognizing recovery issues and arranging your 6-week check-up.

For baby care, clarify:

  • How often to feed your baby and recognize feeding cues.
  • What to expect with poos, wees, and signs of illness.
  • How to contact your local child and family health nurse and arrange immunizations.

After a Homebirth

  • Your midwife will stay with you for 3-4 hours post-birth until you and your baby are stable and breastfeeding is established.
  • Ongoing home care continues until your baby is 6 weeks old.

Your Feelings After Birth

  • Birth takes a physical and emotional toll. Healing begins quickly, but fatigue and mixed emotions like joy, anxiety, or relief are common.
  • The ‘baby blues’, occurring 3-5 days after birth, are temporary. If symptoms persist, seek help.
  • Talking with trusted loved ones helps monitor your emotional well-being.

Home Visits and Support

  • Homebirth: Your midwife will visit regularly, starting daily, tapering off as needed.
  • Hospital birth: A midwife or child health nurse usually visits in the first week to support you and your baby.

Breastfeeding Basics

Breastfeeding requires time, patience, and practice. Tips include:

  • Maximizing skin-to-skin contact and keeping your baby close in the early days.
  • Knowing it may take several weeks to feel confident.

If challenges arise, consult a midwife, lactation consultant, or call the National Breastfeeding Helpline (1800 686 268, available 24/7).

Learning to Care for Your Baby

New parents often learn:

  • Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding basics.
  • Nappy changing and bathing.
  • Safe sleeping practices.
  • Balancing routine with responsiveness.
  • Bonding strategies to connect with your baby.

Taking It Easy

Some days, just feeding, comforting your baby, and showering is enough. Rest whenever possible and accept support from trusted family or friends.

Hospitals or private health funds may offer low-cost help with cleaning or shopping during these weeks. Ask about available services.

Healthy Eating and Drinking

Balanced nutrition keeps your energy up:

  • Accept meal offers from family or friends.
  • Opt for prepared meals, soups, or salads when time is tight.
  • Consider online grocery shopping for convenience.

Managing Visitors

  • Family and friends will want to visit, but set boundaries about timing and health (e.g., no visitors with illnesses).
  • Ask trusted individuals, like your partner, to manage visits.

Practical tips include:

  • Putting up a ‘Do not disturb’ sign.
  • Switching your phone to silent.
  • Encouraging small groups or delaying visits for a few days.

Final Thoughts

The first weeks with a new baby are a time for rest, recovery, and bonding. Accept help when offered, prioritize self-care, and take each day as it comes. Support is available, and it’s okay to ask for it when needed.