It’s good to know when you’ll be back home, so you can start to organise the next stage of your bigger life.
Following a vaginal birth, mothers can expect to stay for three nights, however this depends on your circumstances and needs.
Following a caesarean section, mothers can expect to stay four nights, however this depends on your circumstances and needs.
Once you’re approved to go home by your Obstetrician and your baby’s Paediatrician, we ask that you aim to discharge by 10am.
It’s normal for new mothers to feel a bit anxious about taking their new baby home. There are community supports to help with your transition. These include:
Child restraints
It’s the law in Australia that all children are restrained according to height and age in a car. The restraint must meet the Australian and New Zealand Standards.
More information about child restraints can be found at Child Restraint Guidelines.
Newborn Support Service
We understand there are many things to learn about your new baby and the Midwives at Ashford Hospital are always here to help you. Our Newborn Support Service is for you when you leave hospital, for up to 6 weeks.
This service is available by appointment:
- Tuesdays between 8am and 4pm
- Thursdays between 11am and 4pm
Call 08 8375 5218 for more information or to make an appointment.
Settling and feeding
Being a parent is a rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging if your baby isn’t settling or feeding well. The South Australian Government website Parenting and Child Health offers guides for parents with newborns and babies up to twelve months old. We recommend the Sleep and Settling - A reflective workbook for parents.