Postpartum Hospital Discharge

Your postpartum hospital discharge is the day you take your baby home and start your new life as a family of (3…4…5…). Congratulations to you on all of the hard work you put in to bringing your baby into the world. 

Here are 3 things to keep in mind as you prepare for your postpartum hospital discharge.

Discharge Paperwork: Expect to be handed a packet of papers from your postpartum nurse. Your discharge papers contain two areas of focus:

• Your Newborn: Think of this as your “how to guide” It will contain information on how and when to feed your newborn, how many wet and dirty diapers to expect each day, and what red flags might require a call to your provider. When shit hits the fan (and it might), you’ll know exactly what to do! 
• Your Postpartum Body: Your body has transformed from giving birth and that transformation requires healing. The information you will be given will inform you of the do’s and don’ts while recovering, as well as details about red flags that might warrant a call to your medical provider.

Car seat: A handful of weeks prior to your due date is a great time to take that car seat out of its box and get that thing installed. The car seat is the key to getting your baby home. In fact, the nurse won’t let you leave unless you have it with you ,and it is properly installed. Do a quick search for a “CPST” or “Child passenger safety technician”. This is a certified individual who is qualified to properly install your child’s car seat. 

Give yourself grace. Look, you just gave birth to your baby and there has never been a better time to nurture your mind, body and spirit. Let the little things go and allow others to pour into you. Spend your energy learning and loving your baby and recovering from the challenging work of bringing them into the world!

Pro-Tip: Before your postpartum hospital discharge, get yourself a postpartum doula! Your doula will support you through this incredible time in your life by providing you with compassionate, non-judgmental support as you navigate new motherhood. 

Your postpartum doula will ensure that your newborn’s transition to life outside of the womb is a smooth one. During pregnancy, your baby is comfy-cozy in your body and all of their needs are constantly met. Your baby is never cold, never tired, never hungry, etc. When they make their way into the world, that all changes and it is easy to be overwhelmed as you learn their cues and determine their needs. 

Let’s face it… Bringing home a new baby can unravel even the most seasoned parents. Uptown Doula wants you to know that we’re here, and we’ve got you! 

Contact us today to discuss your postpartum doula support needs!