Expectations of health women look forward to regaining

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

Balancing exercise and healthy activity with rest and relaxation • value of di�erent 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 e�ects •

• 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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

• 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