POSTNATAL CARE

Baby is here

The reality of life with a newborn can be a lot to adjust to. Well-meant advice comes from every direction. Be kind to yourself. The pages below cover what to expect in the early days, weeks and months.

Last reviewed May 2026 by Dr Sarah Koffmann

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The first few days

What to expect in hospital and the first 72 hours at home. The single most-asked-about stage.

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Practical first steps

Baby checks before discharge Injections for baby Register your baby

Local follow-up care

Community midwives Community Health Centre Find a GP

Looking after yourself

Recovery after birth Pelvic floor Mental wellbeing Birth debriefing Pregnancy and infant loss Contraception

Looking after baby

Keeping baby safe and healthy Crying, settling and sleep Breastfeeding Bottle and formula feeding Parent support Childcare options
Worried about something? Call your GP, or the Community Health Centre on 02 6330 5677.