The arrival of a new baby into the family is a time of both new joys and new challenges. Even if it’s not your first baby, each baby is different, and a new baby will bring some changes to family life. During this time, new mothers are often tired, anxious, and in need of support. A Maternal Child Health Nurse can play a vital role in nurturing new mothers and providing them with the care and support they need during this crucial time.
Research shows the first 1000 days of a child’s life, from conception to 2 years of age, is an important foundational period which shapes their development and wellbeing. Children thrive when they have supportive environments in these early years. We know during this time many parents can feel overwhelmed and confused by the amount & type of information available and often don’t feel comfortable asking for help when they need it. We are often led to believe that parenting should come naturally. Whilst many parents receive antenatal & birth education, there often isn’t much focus on the early weeks at home. This is where a Maternal Child Health Nurse can be a valuable support for new mothers and families.
Along with your GP, your Maternal Child Health Nurse is a good starting point for support for your child’s health, development, behaviour, feeding and settling. You can also talk to your nurse about your own wellbeing. It’s all part of helping your child grow and thrive in the early years.
"Motherhood is amazing. And then it's really hard. And then it's incredible. And then it's everything in between. So, hold onto the good, breathe through the bad, and welcome to the wildest ride of your life"
Proud Happy Mama
What is a Maternal Child Health Nurse? Is it the same as a Midwife?
Maternal and Child Health Nurse (MCHN) is a qualified Registered Nurse (RN) with an additional postgraduate qualification in Maternal and Child Health.
Midwives have expertise in pregnancy, birth and the first 6 weeks postpartum, whereas Maternal Child Health Nurses focus on the growth and development of babies and children up until 6 years of age or even through to adolescence.
Nurturing new mothers: the role of a MCH Nurse
MCH nurses play a vital role in nurturing new mothers. They provide support and guidance to mothers during the postnatal period, which can be a difficult and overwhelming time. They also work closely with other members of the healthcare team to ensure that mothers and babies receive the best possible care.
When you are pregnant it is the midwives, obstetricians or general practitioners who are usually your lead care providers, however, Once you’re home with your newborn baby, your MCH nurse can be a great source of support for you as a parent. As well as offering advice, the nurse will also check your baby’s growth and development. They can help with breastfeeding/early feeding, settling techniques and advice on sleep, growth and development, safety, immunisations and much more. They also provide information on maternal and child health, and can refer families to other health professionals if needed.
What are the benefits of nurturing new mothers?
Nurturing new mothers in the postpartum period has many benefits, including improved mental and physical health of mother and baby. The benefits of nurturing new mothers extend beyond the mother and child. When mothers are supported and encouraged in the early weeks and months after childbirth, they are more likely to breastfeed for longer, have less postnatal depression, and be more confident in their parenting abilities. All of these benefits have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of the family as a whole.
New mothers have a lot to adjust to in the postpartum period and it is important they have the nurturing support they need to care for their and their babies. As a MCH nurse our goal is to empower you to find your joy, to feel supported and cared for so you can step into motherhood with confidence.
