The postnatal, also known as the postpartum period, is a crucial phase in the life of a new family. It revolves around the weeks and months following the birth of a baby and his/ her growth. During this period, the parents and the other siblings, go through a transformative journey as they adapt to the presence of a new family member and learn to embrace the challenges and blissfulness during this period.
Here are some areas to look out for during the postnatal period:
- Physical recovery: This includes healing from vaginal or caesarean birth, managing postpartum bleeding and regaining strength.
- Emotional well-being: Both parents and siblings may experience a surge of emotions including happiness, anxiety, exhaustion or even postpartum depression. Emotional support and open communication within the family are crucial.
- Family dynamics: The addition of a new family member can change the dynamics. Sibling relationships may change and parents have to find a new balance in their roles and responsibilities.
- Sleep and routine: Newborns often disrupt sleep patterns and establishing a routine can be challenging. Family members must learn to adapt to new sleep schedules and responsibilities.
- Breastfeeding and Infant Care: Breastfeeding is a significant part of the mother's daily routine. Other roles include caring for the infant, feeding, changing diapers and soothing the baby.
- Social support: These extensive social support networks can provide assistance, advice and companionship during this adjustment period.
- Self-care: Rest, nutrition and emotional wellness are crucial for everyone's health.
- Paediatric care: Regular check-ups and immunisations are essential for the baby's health and development.
- Bonding: Skin-to-skin contact, spending quality time together and engaging in activities that promote bonding are important.
If family members are struggling with emotional or psychological challenges during the postpartum period, please seek professional help early. Postpartum depression and anxiety are common but treatable conditions.
Postnatal is a period of significant change, adaptation and growth for a family as they welcome a new member into their lives. It requires patience, communication and support from within the family and community. Understanding the challenges and joys of this phase can help families navigate the challenges with resilience and positivity.
Sembawang Polyclinic offers guidance on breastfeeding, recovery, emotional well-being to help mothers navigate the challenges of the post-birth period.
Lactation support service
Breastfeeding is a natural way to nourish your baby but it can also be taxing and challenging for new mothers. It may not always come naturally to every mother and baby. The challenges can range from latch issues and low milk supply to sore nipples and engorgement. Without appropriate guidance and support, these challenges can spiral to frustration and helplessness.
Nursing guidance: Our nursing team is trained to asses the baby's latch, address their issues like tongue tie and offer solutions to common breastfeeding problems.
Tailored support: Our nurses will provide personalised support and advice based on the specific needs and circumstances of each mother-baby duo.
Emotional support: Our nurses will address the physical issues and provide emotional support and assurance while resolving the maternal concerns.
Building confidence: By teaching mothers the effective skills and imparting relevant self-care techniques, these services will allow mothers to develop more control and confidence in their breastfeeding journey.
Coping with challenges: Mothers may encourage challenge such as painful nursing, mastitis or low milk supply during their breastfeeding journey. Our nurses will impart the appropriate care techniques to help mothers better manage these challenges.
The lactation support services at Sembawang Polyclinic offer valuable resources, including breastfeeding classes and access to support groups. These services provide expert guidance, emotional support and health coaching to empower mothers on their breastfeeding journey. By seeking help from our nurses, mothers can better manage breastfeeding challenges, build confidence and ensure a positive experience that will foster stronger bonding between mother and child.
Enhance Maternal Baby ToddleR And Child SurvEillance (EMBRACE)
EMBRACE is a new maternal and child programme to address health and social issues, advocate good health education and offer emotional support to parents/ caregivers and children.
Medical, care and financial screening: A key component of EMBRACE is the assessment of the child's medical/ care needs and the financial situation of the family to ensure that the family receives appropriate healthcare and support.
Health education: Parents receive health education on various topics like nutrition, child development milestones and parentcraft skills. The health tips will empower parents to make informed decisions on their child's health and well-being.
Mental health support: New mothers often face emotional challenges. Early identification and screening for postnatal depression can reduce the risk of long-term mental health issues. Providing a safe space for mothers to discuss their concerns and fears can improve their mental health.
Chronic condition management: For mothers with a history of chronic conditions during pregnancy, a multi-disciplinary team ensures that their condition is reviewed regularly and supported to prevent complications in future pregnancies and improve overall well-being.
You may visit Family Nexus @ Bukit Canberra to enquire on your eligibility and enrol in the programmes.
