Mums back home visits by midwives

Tash Toovey, with son Aiden Card, is grateful for the new government incentives that provide midwives to new mums.

Max Fleet

NEW mums in Bundaberg can now get follow-up care after giving birth, thanks to a State Government program that aims to make life easier through midwives making post-natal visits to the home.

First-time Bundaberg mum Natasha Toovey said visits from Bundaberg Hospital midwife Ann McLennan during the past two weeks since giving birth to son Aiden on May 1 had helped her settle into the role of being a new mum.

“The program is going great,” she said.

“I don't have to organise an appointment or go anywhere. They come to you, which is less stress on me and my baby.

“As a new mum, these home visits have supported me with breastfeeding, bathing and settling techniques for my little boy.

“Ann also checks to ensure that I'm doing well both physically and mentally.”

Ms McLennan said visiting and helping mums in their own home was also rewarding for her as a midwife.

“I love the home visits and enjoy helping new mums adjust to their new role,” she said.

Ms Toovey said she recommended the midwife program to any first-time mothers and praised the vast knowledge the midwives had.

“My own mum was amazed at the services of the midwives. She said that when I was born there was nothing like this available,” she said.

“(Back then) you had your baby, left the hospital and were on your own unless you made doctor appointments and left your home.”

Ms Toovey said another service that had been helpful since leaving hospital with her newborn was the Newborn and Family Drop-in Services centre.

“I can go to the centre without an appointment to get parenting support, baby development checks, breastfeeding support and access to any information I might need,” Ms Toovey said.

Health Minister Geoff Wilson said more than 60% of new mums had received a home visit from a midwife and more than 600 local families had accessed the Bundaberg centre in the past six months.

“We're continuing to deliver on the commitment we made in 2008 – that by 2012, all new mums will receive follow-up care after giving birth,” Mr Wilson said.

“Our children are the future of Queensland and we want to ensure every child gets the best possible start in life.

“That's why the government is investing in innovative new programs so that parents can access the help and support they need closer to home.”