The midwives will remain with you for around two hours after the birth of your baby. During this time a midwife will repair any perineal tears (if required), check that you are well, and that you have been able to have a wash/shower and emptied your bladder.

After skin-to-skin contact and a feed, your baby will be checked and weighed by a midwife, and vitamin k given if you have given consent for this.

Before leaving you, your midwife will provide you with contact telephone numbers in case of emergencies and for help and advice.

The community midwifery team will be informed of your birth and plans for your next visit made. Your midwife will ensure you have information on basic safety and care principles in looking after yourself and your baby, including:

  • Sleeping positions
  • Environmental temperature
  • Pain relief for yourself
  • What to expect in relation to your recovery from birth

Your baby will have an oxygen level check prior to the midwives leaving you after the birth.