maternity
What can you expect after birth?
You have been looking forward to this for months and now your baby has finally been born. You have become parents (again). Congratulations!
The first week after giving birth
After the birth, the postnatal period begins. This is what we call the first week after giving birth. It is the beginning of a special period of first encounters and impressions, a time when you are physically recovering from the birth, but at the same time discovering how to care for your little one. This can sometimes raise questions and uncertainties. Together with the maternity nurse, we keep a close eye on the condition of the baby and you, and we are there for all your questions and concerns.
Maternity care
For the first eight days, or longer if necessary, you can count on the help of the maternity nurse. She will take care of mother and child and teach you the ins and outs of baby care. She will also give you lots of information and help you get started with breastfeeding or bottle feeding. In addition, she will carry out a number of checks, record these in the maternity file and act as a kind of intermediary, providing us with information about your well-being.
Obstetric
In the first week after the birth, we will visit you several times to discuss how things are going and we will continue to be your first point of contact if you have any concerns. We are available 24 hours a day on the emergency number, even during the postnatal period.
In addition, we check whether your baby is maintaining a healthy temperature, feeding well, does not appear too yellow, how their weight is progressing, whether their navel is drying properly, etc. We also keep a close eye on your recovery. Your body is recovering from a major task and is now preparing for a new phase. Mentally, the transition to parenthood, combined with sleep deprivation and hormones, can also be quite challenging. Our advice is to talk about it; you will find that you are not alone. And if you are worried or just want to chat, we are here for you.
Separate maternity bed
Even if you have been monitored by the hospital throughout your pregnancy, we can still provide support during the postnatal period.
You can register for this at our practice during your pregnancy. Once you have given birth and returned home, simply give us a call and we will visit you at home for further check-ups and guidance.
Feeding your baby
Breastfeeding
Breast milk gives your baby the healthiest start, but breastfeeding often does not come naturally right away. It takes practice for both mother and child, and it usually takes a few weeks before you are completely in tune with each other. In the first week after the birth, you will receive guidance at home from the maternity nurse and from us on breastfeeding. After that, the health clinic will help you further if you need help or advice. It is also important that you receive support from your partner, family and friends. And if you need extra support, we can help you find a lactation consultant.
On www.borstvoeding.nl you can read all about breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding cafés, or mum cafés, are also regularly organised in the area. Here you can easily exchange tips and experiences with other new parents and experts.
Bottle feeding (formula feeding)
Bottle feeding is an excellent alternative if you are unable to breastfeed or if you do not feel comfortable doing so.
In principle, you can choose any type of formula for newborns. If there is a history of allergies, asthma or eczema in the family, it is advisable to consult with us about which formula is best to purchase.
There are also many types of bottles and teats available. The type of bottle you need depends on your child. You can buy a standard bottle in advance. However, you may need to try out a number of different types of bottles and/or teats, as drinking behaviour can vary from child to child.
Get in touch
We would love to meet you.
Let us hear from you using the contact form below or call 023-5714437.