Postpartum Care

Follow-up care begins immediately at birth as your Certified Nurse-Midwife examines your newborn, provides advice on breastfeeding and infant care, and rejoices with you and your family.

An hour or two after birth, fathers give their baby a Leboyer bath. This bath is not to clean the baby, but to allow the baby and father time to bond, and the infant to feel the warmth and comfort it has long been accustomed to in the mother's uterus. Some fathers choose to get into the Jacuzzi with their baby. Some mothers will do so also.

After the birth, your baby will get a complete physical examination. You'll be checked to make sure there is no bleeding or complications, and that you're breastfeeding successfully. You will be advised about reproductive health, preconception, and personal care. Prescriptions for medications and/or vitamins can be prescribed by your Certified Nurse-Midwife, should you require these good health care aids.

Once all vital signs for both you and your child—including breathing, temperature, and cardiovascular systems—are completely stable, you may go home. Most mothers and babies are ready to leave Birth and Women's Center about six hours after delivery.

A home visit will be done two to three days after a first time mother's delivery. Ten-day and six-week exams will take place at Birth and Women's Center. A few weeks after birth, you will be invited to share your birth experience at our monthly MaternaTEA.