What to Expect After Delivering a Baby: A Postpartum Journey

Bringing a new baby into the world is an incredible experience, and while much of the focus is often on labour and delivery, the postpartum period is just as important—and full of its own set of changes, challenges, and care. If you've recently given birth or are preparing to, here's what you can expect after delivering your baby.

1. Immediate Post-Birth Care
Right after your baby is born, you’ll likely remain in the delivery room for a couple of hours for initial recovery. During this time: your baby will be checked over by midwives (Apgar score, weight, etc.). You'll be offered skin-to-skin contact and support with the first feed. The placenta will be delivered, and if necessary, any stitches will be done. If all is well, you might be discharged within a few hours (if it’s a straightforward birth) or stay overnight or longer if there were complications or you had a C-section.

2. Hospital Stay
Postnatal wards vary, but in general: You’ll be monitored for bleeding, blood pressure, and overall well-being. Midwives and support staff will help you with feeding (breast or bottle). Your baby may receive vitamin K and a newborn hearing test. You may be offered pain relief and advice on managing stitches or wounds.

3. Going Home and Community Midwife Visits
After you're discharged, care continues at home: A community midwife will visit you at home for up to 10 days (sometimes longer). They check your physical recovery, your baby's weight, feeding, and general health. They’re also there to support your emotional wellbeing—don’t hesitate to speak up about any concerns, including signs of baby blues or postnatal depression.

4. Health Visitor Support
Around 10–14 days post-birth, care typically transitions to a health visitor: They monitor your baby’s development up to 5 years old. They offer advice on feeding, sleep, vaccinations, and parenting support. You’ll have scheduled reviews at around 6–8 weeks, then later at 1 year and 2–2.5 years.

5. Postnatal Check (6–8 Weeks)
You and your baby will both be seen by your GP for a check-up. This includes: Discussing your physical and mental recovery. Checking in on contraception, periods, and pelvic health. Reviewing baby’s growth, feeding, and development.

6. Mental Health Matters
The NHS takes maternal mental health seriously: You may be asked about your mood during midwife and GP checkups. If you’re struggling, you can access support via your GP, health visitor, or perinatal mental health teams. Charities like PANDAS Foundation, Mind, and Tommy’s also offer help.

7. Breastfeeding and Infant Feeding Support
Whether you breastfeed, formula-feed, or mix-feed, support is available: Midwives and health visitors are your first point of contact. Many areas have infant feeding teams, drop-in clinics, and lactation consultants. The National Breastfeeding Helpline (0300 100 0212) is open every day.

​8. Registering the Birth
You must register your baby’s birth within 42 days in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, or 21 days in Scotland. This is done at your local registry office.

9. Claiming Benefits and Childcare Support
​Don’t forget to: Apply for Child Benefit within 3 months of birth. Look into Universal Credit or other support if eligible. Explore options like Tax-Free Childcare and free nursery hours when your baby gets older.

​We hope you find this post helpful, and wish you the best of luck with the arrival of your new baby!