Experts in Delivering Care for Baby … and Mom

With the birth of a child, it is only natural that in the minutes, hours and days following his or her arrival, the baby is the center of attention. But it is also a time of great change – physically and emotionally for the new mother.

At Elmbrook Memorial the wellness of both mom and baby are our primary concerns. Our staff of experts includes registered nurses who are especially trained as postpartum nurse specialists. These nurses monitor and care for the new mom during the postpartum (or post-delivery) period.

Immediately following childbirth, a woman’s body experiences a wide range of changes. Nine month of slow physical growth is suddenly “deflated” with the baby’s arrival. Physically there is stretching, soreness, discharges and muscle relaxation. The abrupt change in hormone levels can also result in mood and emotional swings.

While the baby is being tended to by newborn professionals, a team of postpartum professionals will be meeting the unique needs of the brand new mother, providing personalized attention and education in personal care, baby care and answering any questions.

The first few hours after childbirth:
Postpartum care involves managing all of the physical effects of childbirth that a woman experiences, which may include:

Post delivery contractions
Episiotomy care
Vaginal discharge
Difficulty urinating
Leaking urine
Constipation
Hemorrhoids
Hot and cold flashes
Breast soreness and/or leaking
Weight management

Postpartum nurses will evaluate the pulse, respiratory rate, temperature and blood pressure of mom at regular intervals during the first hour postpartum and throughout her stay until discharge. Lab tests may be ordered to check for signs of anemia, infection or electrolyte imbalance. Nurses will also monitor pain levels and provide pain relief if necessary.

Other care the new mom will receive includes:

Help in taking a shower as soon as allowed, monitoring for weakness or light headedness
Monitor voiding and ensure she is not having difficulty
Assist with walking and moving about until she is steady on her feet
Arranging a visit with a lactation specialist to determine the best nutritional path for the baby

Education and support
A large part of our postpartum care is ensuring that you - as a new parent - are fully educated about all aspects of your health and the care of your baby. Our staff will provide emotional support through childbirth education and how it can be a highly emotional and psychologically overwhelming time. We will also provide education on receiving adequate rest, proper diet, muscle-strengthening exercises and preparing for going home.

The postpartum period begins after the delivery of the baby and ends when the mother's body has returned as closely as possible to its pre-pregnant state. This period usually lasts six to eight weeks. During this time, we are available to provide counseling on infant care, breastfeeding, nutrition and supplementation, dealing with emotional changes such as post-partum depression, resumption of sexual activity and immunizations.

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