Puerperium:

• Definition
• Physiological changes during puerperium

Breastfeeding:

• Importance of breastfeeding
• Breastfeeding initiatives
• common breastfeeding problems:
  • nipple pain
  • nipple crack
  • breast engorgement
  • mastitis
• Advise on postpartum contraception
• Awareness of roles of other HCPs (Midwives, health visitors, physiotherapists) during the puerperium

Roles of other HCPs

Midwives –

• Provide care and monitoring of mother and baby for 10-14 days postnatal
• If all is well (social, physical, psychological) - discharge to GP and health visitor

Health visitors –

• Take over care from midwives in non-complicated cases
• Visit around 2 weeks after birth to assess wellbeing, development, bio-psychosocial factors, etc.
• Use developmental milestones to assess development
• Monitor mother’s wellbeing and offer support - can refer into services if necessary