Postpartum Care & Breastfeeding Support After a homebirth most women are exhausted, but they do not need to be patients in a hospital. Both new mothers and their babies need nuturing and rest. In many cultures there is a traditional period of time for rest, recovery and breastfeeding. The mother's hormones are changing rapidly, her breasts need the suckling of a hungry new baby to build a good milk supply; the family's life is changed forever. Many of the Mexican women I have worked with have observed a forty-day postpartum period of rest. Unfortunately, in the United States we commonly ignore mother and baby's need to rest. Two postpartum home visits in the first few days after birth. These are usually at least an hour long. I, or my assistant, will assess both mother and baby thoroughly. Visits at two weeks, six weeks and six months postpartum. Traditionally a complete physical exam, pap smear and assistance with birth control are offered at either six weeks or six months postpartum. I will remain on-call after the birth for questions and emergent situations. As always, my clients shouldn't hesitate to call me with concerns. Breastfeeding Support Breastfeeding is natural, but occasionally the first few days are difficult. If a breastfeeding complication is more complex than I feel comfortable helping with, I will refer you to a lactation consultant. |