Expectations of health

1. Expectations of health • women look forward to regaining their body for themselves once the baby is born • The role of the midwife at this point is to assist the woman to identify actual symptoms of disorder • advise what action the woman can do for herself

2. Balancing exercise and healthy activity with rest and relaxation • value of different forms of exercise and health has been shown to be of psychological as well as physical benifit • exercising during the postnatal period has many positive effects

3. For example, women who exercise regularly are more likely to recover more quickly after the birth • level of activity in relation to appropriate exercise and, by association, nutritional intake and rest or relaxation and sleep has various effect.

4. regular pelvic floor exercises is of benefit to women's long-term health • Future health, future fertility • Midwife should be able to offer sensitive and appropriate advice on contraception where this is needed.

5. Record-keeping and documentation • Clear and accurate records of any observations and discussions that have taken place during the postnatal period are a key tool in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of the mother and her baby.

6. The midwife's record- keeping • Keep clear and accurate records: • You must complete records as soon as possible after an event has occurred. • paper records are clearly and legibly signed, dated and timed. • You must ensure all records are kept securely.

7. Evidence and best practice • Collect information regarding mother and baby. • the midwife has a responsibility to make appropriate referral to a medical practitioner or other appropriate healthcare professional.

8. Transition to parenthood • major adjustments within a family and some mothers will welcome and actively seek help and support from a midwife during the postnatal period • a visit to the home might have been planned

9. A recent meta-synthesis has reported that fathers cannot support their partner effectively in achieving a positive parenthood experience unless they are themselves supported, included and prepared for parenthood

10. The midwife has an important role in supporting both parents during the transition to parenthood as there are clear health and wellbeing benefits for the mother and baby