Congratulations on your pregnancy, I bet there are a lot of different questions going through your mind at the moment, and that is completely normal!
What will I need to take to hospital?
What will my baby need when we arrive home? How will I be feeling?
Well, we are here to put your mind at ease and help tackle some of the most important ones, head-on.
Firstly, if you are booked in to have your baby at Epworth you have no doubt heard about the Maternity Education classes. These are a wonderful starting point and cover topics like birth and labour, breastfeeding and even Hypnobirthing. At the moment they are being run virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions, but you can find out more about the programs on the website.
It can feel overwhelming even knowing where to start. Your body has been doing a pretty amazing job growing and nourishing this baby of yours, but what happens after birth? Knowing what you will need to bring to hospital is a good place to begin. Epworth has a fantastic checklist, which covers things like how many onesies to include and the types of toiletries you may need. Of course, everyone is different but if you are looking for a great base then this has you covered.
Heading home after birth can feel both exciting and daunting. Having the right equipment ready for both you and baby will most certainly put your mind at ease. Let’s start with the basics. You will need a capsule or car seat to transport your baby home, a baby bath and washcloths for baby, and a cot or bassinet for baby to sleep safely in. Beyond that, your choices will be personal. Things that might also be helpful include a feeding pillow, an electric breast pump if you’re planning to breastfeed. Muslin wraps and cloth nappies are also really handy to mop up spit ups. You will find these topics, and many others, covered in more depth through Epworth Mobile Midwife videos. The short informational and instructional videos cover topics like bathing, wrapping your baby, and so much more.
And what about mum? Often in the whirlwind of childbirth, you can feel a little forgotten, with all eyes on the beautiful new bundle you so cleverly brought into the world. However, it is so important to take care of yourself. Taking advantage of the physiotherapy check-up in hospital while you are admitted is a great starting point. Talking through concerns with the supportive midwife and lactation staff at Epworth is also really important. There are no silly questions, and your physical and mental health are both of utmost importance both at hospital and home.
The midwives at Epworth are always happy to talk your calls if at any time you have concerns and remember to make the most of the services provided to you by the hospital, they will make the world of difference.
03 December 2020