How far do you go into postpartum at your prenatals?

[joanna_b]

I've searched some other threads but really haven't seen a specific answer to my question so I figured I would ask. If I missed it, please point me to it!

When you are doing your prenatals, how much time do you spend talking about postpartum concerns such as baby care, breastfeeding, mom's recovery, fussy babies, cosleeping and /or baby wearing, carseat use and safety, roles for fathers and family members, general feelings after baby is born/ PPD, etc...

Do you get really specific about any of these topics or do you just give out a handout or referrals so they can research it themselves? If you do get specific about any of these topics, which ones do you get into? Do you feel it is beneficial for the new parent(s) when you get really specific or is it better to just wait and see if they need help and resources after the baby is born?

Thanks!

[earthgirl]

I give my clients an informational binder with info on all of the above that you mentioned, and I ask if there is anything specific they think they need more info on. Also, parents don't really know what they need help with until after the baby, so I usually give additional resources at the postpartum visit. A list of numbers for postpartum support international, local contact for LLL meetings, poison control, breastfeeding helpline etc. I am also still available to them for two months after the birth (or longer...I wouldn't ignore a request for help) if they have questions.
It would be a good idea to network with postpartum doulas, IBCLC, chiropractors, etc. so you have a list of referrals for the women postpartum.

[joanna_b]

Quote:

Originally Posted by earthgirl I give my clients an informational binder with info on all of the above that you mentioned, and I ask if there is anything specific they think they need more info on. Also, parents don't really know what they need help with until after the baby, so I usually give additional resources at the postpartum visit. A list of numbers for postpartum support international, local contact for LLL meetings, poison control, breastfeeding helpline etc. I am also still available to them for two months after the birth (or longer...I wouldn't ignore a request for help) if they have questions. It would be a good idea to network with postpartum doulas, IBCLC, chiropractors, etc. so you have a list of referrals for the women postpartum.

That sounds like what I do right now too. It's nice to know I'm on the right track. It just seems like lately, my clients have a lot of postpartum concerns that are coming up in our prenatals so I was wondering if I was missing something or should focus more on the postpartum.

Thanks!