About postnatal careYou can access post-natal care services immediately after giving birth at a public clinic or hospital. 

You and your baby will be checked six hours after birth.

Postnatal checks:

• The midwife will check the baby’s temperature, pulse and blood pressure at least once a day during your hospital stay.
• The midwife will talk to you about feeding your baby.
• If you are breastfeeding she will make sure you are positioning your baby correctly so your breasts won’t be sore or cracked.
• The midwife will feel your abdomen to ensure your uterus (womb) is contracted and your blood loss is normal.
• If you were stitched, the midwife will check to make sure you are healing well and there are no signs of infection.
• If you had a Caesarean section your wound will be checked for any signs of infection.
• The midwife will make sure you are able to pass urine without any problems and that you are opening your bowels.
  • Normally, you should be able to open your bowels within two to three days of giving birth.
  • Postnatal exercises and a diet will be discussed with you and you may be seen by the obstetric physiotherapist who will advise you on certain issues.
  • You will be assessed for any signs of Post Natal Depression or Post Natal Psychosis.
• If you suffer from Post Natal Depression you will be counselled and given medication or referred to a secondary or tertiary hospital.

Baby checks:

• Your baby’s skin and colour will be observed for signs of jaundice. Babies often get jaundice around three to four days after birth.
• The midwife will check the baby’s cord to ensure it is drying up adequately. She will show you how to look after the cord and advise you to keep it clean and dry.
• Feeding will be discussed and assistance given where necessary.

Paediatrician checks:

• The baby will be checked by a paediatrician before you leave the hospital.
• The paediatrician will check the baby’s heart and the hips.
• This check-up cannot be carried out before your baby is six hours old, because it takes that long for the baby’s circulation to change from foetal circulation to baby circulation and this will affect the way the heart sounds.

 The aim of postnatal care:

• It is to check that you return to your pre pregnant state.
• To monitor and ensure healthy development of your baby.
• To help you and your family adapt and successfully fulfil the responsibilities of motherhood.
• To give you sufficient rest and support after giving birth.

What you should do1. Bring along your Identity document (ID) to the medical facility where you’ll be giving birth

• fill out a form and a folder will be opened for you.

How long does it takeIt happens six hours after birth given that you and your baby are healthy and stretches to six weeks.

Note: It varies from one person to another.

How much does it costIt is free at public health facilities. Private health facilities charge a minimum fee.

Forms to completeForms will be available at the hospital and a folder will be created.

Who to contact