In the first few hours following the birth, it is ideal for babies to be kept with their mothers in a quiet and respectful environment. If the mother is planning to breastfeed, midwives can help initiate breastfeeding. During the first few hours after birth, midwives will monitor the mother and the baby’s condition and will conduct a physical examination of the newborn. In average, midwives will remain with their client 2-3h postpartum, ensuring that both mother and baby are doing well.
Clients who choose to have a hospital birth and have an uncomplicated vaginal delivery will have the option to leave as early as 3-4h postpartum.
Postnatal visits in the first week postpartum usually takes place in the clients home. The number of postpartum visits depends largely on the mother and baby’s needs. Following the first week postpartum, clients will return to the midwifery clinic for their visits. These normally take place at 2, 4 and 6 weeks postpartum.