The arrival of your baby can bring a mix of emotions. It is an exciting time, but it is also a time when your body is recovering from birth.
It is very common to feel emotional or tearful in the first few days after your baby is born. Around 8 in 10 women experience the “baby blues”, usually between day 3 and day 5. If you are feeling low or need support, speak to your GP, midwife or health visitor.
Support in hospital
While you are in hospital, midwives will provide information and support to help you care for your baby and help with your choice of feeding, whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle feed.
After your baby is born, you will have the chance for skin‑to‑skin contact and to give your baby their first feed.
You will then move to the maternity ward (C2), where your baby will stay with you in a cot by your bedside.
Getting ready to go home
We have created a series of short videos to help you prepare for going home with your baby. These cover:
- Going home after birth
- Looking after yourself
- Looking after your baby
- Signs that your baby is well
Please take time to watch these videos and share them with your partner or family.
We would also welcome your feedback through our online survey.
Watch our first video to learn what to expect when going home after your baby is born.
Going home following the birth of your baby
Advice on going home after the birth of your baby (text version)
Looking after yourself following the birth
Advice on looking after yourself following the birth of your baby (text version)
Looking after your baby
Advice on looking after your baby (text version)
What are the signs of a baby who is well?
Information about the signs of a baby who is well (text version)
Breastfeeding support
The Northern Trust is committed to supporting breastfeeding and has achieved the UNICEF Baby Friendly Gold Award. This recognises a high standard of care and support for families.