When You Go Home From The Hospital After The Birth

When a woman is pregnant, she tends to think about everything she and the baby will need when they are in the hospital. In fact, most women pack for this beautiful moment several days in advance. But what do you need when you go home from the hospital after giving birth? Just as important as being aware of what your baby needs in the hospital, you also need to know what your baby needs at home.

If a baby is born healthy and well, it can come home with its parents 24-48 hours after birth. Some late preterm infants (between weeks 34 and 36 of pregnancy) may also be in such good health that they can return home after 48 hours in the hospital.

However, babies born by caesarean section (and their mothers), or babies who have health complications, probably need to stay in the hospital a little longer. In addition, infants born before week 34 of pregnancy need long-term care in the hospital. If your little baby is born prematurely, you may be nervous about going home. However, your doctor will always give you guidance that can give you peace of mind.

What do you need to take your baby home from the hospital after the birth?

Many new parents go into childbirth preparation before having their first baby. These sessions help prepare them for childbirth and provide information on basic care of newborns. 

Although the sessions are different, they generally include tips on feeding, common illnesses, daily care, breastfeeding, and car safety. Before your baby is born, you can decide who will provide him or her with general and ongoing medical care. Before you leave the hospital, however, you should know some of the things your child will need:

• A bedroom. You need to have everything ready to take care of your baby, such as a dresser, a crib with a suitable mattress and baby monitor with video.
• A stroller. This should be suitable for your little baby and both comfortable and safe.
• Clothes for newborns. You do not need a ton of clothes because your baby will quickly grow and change size.
• Bleer. Think about whether you want organic, fabric or normal diapers.
• Hygiene products for newborns. You need lotion and shampoo for babies, a brush and saline solution for your baby’s nose.
• A car seat approved for newborns. You can buy a seat that can be changed as your child grows so you can use it for longer.
• The baby card they give you at the hospital. In this booklet you will see your baby’s information from birth, such as weight, height and any abnormalities.

• Sutter. If you are planning to use pacifiers for your baby, it is best to have some!
• Breast milk substitute and everything else for feeding. If you are not planning to breastfeed your baby, you will need things such as bottles (it is best if they are anti-colic), bottle sterilizer and a bottle cleaner.

What to keep in mind when taking your baby home?

It is normal to feel nervous the first time you take a baby home. Therefore, try to keep this moment to yourself and your family so that you can adapt to all the changes. In addition, keep in mind the following:

• New babies can easily get sick. Try to keep your baby away from anyone with symptoms of the common cold or flu, especially during the winter months.
• Wash your hands often to help protect your baby. Ask others to do the same.

When should you take your baby for the first visit to the doctor?

A healthcare professional should check your baby within the first 48-72 hours after you leave the hospital, or at any other time if you feel your baby is not feeling well.

If your baby is born prematurely,  you will need to develop a follow-up care plan with your healthcare provider before you and your baby leave the hospital. They will also make sure that you recognize the first signs or symptoms of any problem.

At the first visit, the health professional will:

• Weigh your baby,  measure the length and girth of your head if this was not done in the hospital.

• Check for signs of jaundice.
• Verify the type of food.
• Give the baby a physical health check.
• Ask how you all adapt to the situation.

A doctor at the hospital where you gave birth, your midwife or a public health nurse can perform this examination. It can be at home, in an outpatient clinic or a clinic in the hospital.

With all this in mind, you can be ready so that you do not miss anything when you take your baby home from the hospital after the birth. This transition can be scary, but it’s easier than you might think! What matters is that you are all well.