WHAT NEW MUMS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CARE AFTER GIVING BIRTH DURING COVID-19

If you’re due to welcome a new baby it’s natural to be concerned about what will happen after you have given birth, especially in these strange and unprecedented times. That’s why we're here to bring you the latest information on the care and support you will receive after giving birth during COVID-19.

This guidance is taken from leading experts and organisations and gathered together in one place for easy reference. It is also regularly updated to reflect the most current info and advice.

These are the answers to some of the questions you might have about care after giving birth during coronavirus:

Can friends and family visit me in hospital?

Unfortunately, visitors are likely to be restricted while you are in the hospital. This is to help keep you, your baby, other families and hospital staff safe. Some maternity units will allow your birth partner to stay with you after you have given birth but some units might ask your partner to leave once the baby has arrived.

Can I have skin-to-skin contact with my baby?

As long as your baby is well and does not require extra neonatal care, you will be able to have skin-to-skin contact. This will apply even if you are showing symptoms of coronavirus but your team will advise you on the risks and benefits if this is the case.

What about breastfeeding?

You can still breastfeed your baby whether you have coronavirus symptoms or not. There is currently no evidence that the virus can be passed to your baby through breast milk. At the same time there is plenty of evidence that breastfeeding has numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of your baby developing certain infectious illnesses.

If you do have coronavirus symptoms or have been tested for the virus, talk to your maternity team about the risks and benefits of breastfeeding.

What happens when I go home?

When you get home the official advice is to continue practising social distancing. This means friends and family who are not living in your household will have to wait a while before meeting the new arrival.

Your maternity team should contact you on the first day home, then on day 5 and day 10. There may be more contact with them and they will be happy to provide more support if you are struggling. If you feel unwell or have any concerns about yourself or your baby, don’t hesitate to get in touch with them.

What’s the advice on feeding my baby?

As mentioned above you can choose to breastfeed your baby, but you should still take precautions while feeding your baby, whether it is from the breast or a bottle.

You should wash your hands thoroughly before touching your baby, breast pump or bottles. You should try to avoid coughing or sneezing while feeding your baby and you might consider wearing a mask during feeds. Follow the recommendations for cleaning pumps and sterilising bottles after each use – this is important at all times, not just during the current coronavirus crisis.

If you do have coronavirus symptoms, you might consider asking someone else to feed the baby until you recover.

What do I do if I think my baby has coronavirus?

The risks are very low, but you might still be worried about your baby catching coronavirus.

Many babies who do get the virus will not even show symptoms and will make a full recovery. Some might develop a cough, fever and/or a fluctuating temperature. If your baby shows any of these signs but is otherwise well you can call NHS 111 for advice.

If you are worried about your baby and they show signs relating to their breathing, colour or movement, call 999 straight away.

Remember, even during the current situation, you should speak to someone if you are worried about your baby’s health. You can contact your midwife team if your baby shows signs of jaundice or seems poorly, or you can speak to another medical professional via 111 or 999.

Your maternity team is still here for you, so if you have any concerns or questions please do let them know so that they can support you.