Going home after having your baby

Once you and your baby are settled following the birth, you and your midwife will discuss a planned date and time for your return home.

The average length of stay for a vaginal birth is 24 to 48 hours and 48 to 72 hours for a caesarean section. If you would like to be discharged earlier than this, please let your midwife know.

To help get you and your baby home sooner, you and your midwife will discuss:

• if your immediate postnatal care will be provided at home by our Visiting Midwife Service
• if you or your baby need medication
• if you have someone to collect you and your baby from hospital – please note an approved child restraint (baby seat) must be fitted in your car before you are discharged from hospital
• follow-up outpatient appointments
• whether you require additional health support services after returning home.

On the day you return home you will be discharged from the hospital by midday (12pm).

Our 7-day-a-week Visiting Midwife Service provides expert midwifery care at home to mothers and babies suitable for an early discharge.