You have open access to the health visiting service (Mon-Friday 08.30am-4pm) by calling the Single Point of Access on 0191 282 3319 if you need support or guidance.
All children and families are entitled to a universal service and the level of support offered is assessed on each individual families health, development and social need.
This visit will take place within your home, when your baby reaches 6-8 weeks the health visitor will send you an appointment letter in the post. The visit is a great opportunity to discuss any worries or concerns you or your partner may have.
The health visitor will discuss your recovery after giving birth, both physically and emotionally, offering support and signposting you to services where needed. You may be asked to complete a questionnaire called the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) this will give the heath visitor an early indication of any signs of post-natal depression. As with previous visits the health visitor will discuss ways to support your baby’s physical and emotional development, discussing how to understand your baby and realistic expectations of your baby at this stage. You will begin to see changes in your baby, they will be more interested in the world around them, they may start to socially smile and coo at this point. Building up on tummy time will be encouraged, as this is a great way to help strengthen your baby’s muscles and give them another view of the world!
At this stage, it is important your baby is registered at their local GP practice and Registry Office. You will be due an appointment with your GP for a postnatal check-up, if you wish this is a good opportunity to discuss contraception, (you are fertile again 21 days after giving birth). Your baby will also be due a GP check-up similar to the physical examination they received in hospital. At 8 weeks old (not before) your baby will be due their first primary vaccinations (immunisations) whih will take place at your GP surgery.
Research suggests an infant’s crying can peak at 6-8 weeks and this can be upsetting and frustrating, the health visitor will discuss ways and techniques to help sooth your baby. Generally, babies will cry less and less each week after hitting this peak. It is ok to walk away from your baby if they are in a safe place and take a moment for yourself to calm down.
The health visitor will weigh your baby at the visit and discuss any concerns you have in relation to their progress. As health visitor’s we understand every child’s journey is unique and, as with previous visits, your health visitor will discuss generic health information including transition to parenthood, infant feeding, safe sleeping, accident and prevention, immunisations, smoking cessation and diet and exercise.
Your next routine visit with the health visitor will be when your baby reaches 3 – 4 months.
