Plenty of help for newbies

Looking forward to the birth of your first child is an exciting and much anticipated event, but the transition to parenthood can have its challenges.

However, plenty of support is available in Canterbury, both before and after the birth.

The Canterbury District Health Board's (CDHB) women's health service manager Jane Waite answers a few questions.

From your experience, what are the some of the challenges faced by first- time parents?

Looking after a new baby can be quite a juggle, with other things like caring for older children, working and managing a home. One of the most challenging areas for parents is how to manage their time. Parents with a new baby often overlook this, especially if it's a first baby. It is vital that the new mother get adequate rest, especially in the early days after the birth. Social outings and visits from friends and family need to be balanced with allowing rest for the new baby and mother.

What help is available before the birth of the baby?

Antenatal classes are run regularly at all of CDHB's birthing units, located at Burwood, Rangiora, Lincoln and Ashburton hospitals. Breastfeeding classes are also available antenatally at Christchurch Women's Hospital.

What about when a mother is still in one of the birthing units or in hospital after the birth? What help is available there?

Our staff are highly trained to help women with breastfeeding and to give guidance in the general care of newborn babies. The CDHB's birthing units are ideal places for a new mother and her baby to stay in the early postnatal period. The woman can expect her lead maternity carer (LMC) to visit her when she is in hospital. The LMC will make a plan of care in partnership with the woman that the staff can follow in the LMC's absence. This will provide the woman with continuity of care and consistent advice, especially around breastfeeding.

Can you tell us a little bit about what the birthing units offer?

Primary birthing units offer a comfortable, low-key setting for antenatal, birthing and postnatal care for women and their families in their community. The birthing units offer a peaceful environment, with homely facilities including great meals and lounge rooms. These provide a perfect setting for new parents to get to know their new baby. The staff are able to provide plenty of one-to- one care. At the country hospitals of Lincoln and Rangiora, women and their visitors also enjoy beautiful gardens.

Breastfeeding can be difficult for first-time mothers. What help is available?

As I mentioned earlier, we have antenatal breastfeeding classes, highly skilled staff and lactation consultant advice for mothers who choose to stay with us. Primary unit staff have had extensive training and are experts in breastfeeding issues.

Where can parents go if they feel they are not coping?

In the first six weeks, all new mothers will have an LMC midwife. This should be their first port of call. After that time, they can telephone their Plunket nurse or contact their general practice team.

- Canterbury District Health Board

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