After the birth (postnatal care)

You go through a big transition: physically, emotionally and as a family. We check how yourrecovery and your baby’s health are going, but above all: we’re here to help and reassure you. We answer your questions, give practical tips and show that many things are entirely normal in this period. So you’re not on your own and can settle step by step into your new life with your baby.

First visit

The first home visit takes place within 24 hours after you are home with your baby. After a hospital birth you can let us know yourself after the birth, or have it passed on via the hospital. We then get in touch as soon as possible and plan the first visit.

Follow-up at home

• Up to and including day 5 after the birth we visit daily
• After that you have 6 more home visits (or more if prescribed by a doctor)
• You plan these moments at your own pace and according to your needs, until your child is 1 year old
• There is no fixed length to a home visit: your midwife takes time for you, as much time as needed

This way you can gradually grow towards confidence and independence, with support whenever you need it.

A warm start

Because coming home with your baby is a big adjustment, we come to you. That way you can settle into your new life calmly, in your own familiar surroundings. We believe good care goes beyond the medical. We support you not only as a midwife but also as a person, with attention to what you need.

Getting to know each other during pregnancy

To make this period go as smoothly as possible, we ideally plan an intake conversation during pregnancy. That way we get to know each other and can support you personally from the start.

Frequently asked questions about postnatal care

When does the midwife first visit after the birth?+

The first home visit takes place within 24 hours after you are home with your baby. After a hospital birth you can let us know yourself, or have it passed on via the hospital.

How often do you visit after the birth?+

Up to and including day 5 we visit daily. After that you have 6 more home visits (or more if prescribed by a doctor), which you plan at your own pace, until your child is 1 year old.

What do you monitor for mum and baby?+

For mum we monitor recovery (blood pressure, uterus, blood loss, stitches or wound care) and support feeding. For the baby we check weight and growth, feeding, the navel, and we carry out the heel prick screening.

Do you carry out the heel prick?+

Yes, the heel prick (a newborn screening) is carried out during one of our home visits, alongside the further follow-up of your baby.