During a first pregnancy, inner attention often barely reaches as far as the birth itself. But anyone who already has children knows: afterwards is usually when it really starts. Some things can be thought through or prepared in advance. Tips for the time after the birth, with information on the postnatal period, birth certificates, depression and available support.
The Postnatal Period
The first six to eight weeks after the birth are called the postnatal period (Wochenbett). During this time, any birth injuries heal and the uterus returns to its original size. If breastfeeding, milk production adjusts to the baby’s needs. A midwife can come to the home regularly, examine the healing process and advise parents on infant care. We recommend finding a midwife for the postnatal period already during the first half of pregnancy. Around six weeks after the birth, a gynaecological follow-up examination is due. A postnatal exercise course is also recommended. The costs for midwife care, gynaecologist and postnatal exercise are covered by health insurance.
Anyone who has given birth should get as much rest and recovery as possible in the following weeks. Shopping, housework and the care of older siblings should ideally be taken over by the other parent, grandparents, flatmates or friends. In some areas there is volunteer help available for this period – ask your local pregnancy counselling centre.
Baby Blues
Many people experience mood swings, particular sensitivity, tearfulness or intense worries a few days after the birth. These ‘crying days’ are often attributed to the major hormonal changes. They can generally be accompanied with compassion and love, and usually pass of their own accord within a few days.
Medical advice is indicated if complaints persist, if there are thoughts of suicide, hallucinations or severe apathy – as this may be a postpartum depression.
The First Time With the Baby
In the first weeks, parents need to learn to understand their child’s signals. Hunger, full nappy, tummy ache or boredom? Experienced parents or a midwife can ease this time. The midwife also advises on nutrition, helps with breastfeeding issues or has tips on formula milk. Pregnancy counselling centres also provide support until the child’s third birthday.
When children are born prematurely or have health problems, anxieties and worries overshadow the first period. In particular, sick or weakened children need closeness to their caregivers and physical contact to recover quickly. Your midwife or a counselling centre can support you.
“Our midwife really saved us. Every day there was something with the baby. Unusual stool, crying, sore bottom, spots on the face… We could discuss all of it and gradually grew into parenthood.”
Early Support Services (Frühe Hilfen)
The first years with the first, second or third child are particularly challenging for families. During this time many parents reach their limits. And only a few still have able-bodied grandparents living on the same street who can step in with childcare, shopping or lunch. That is why there are special support services available in the first three years of life, which can be found under the term ‘Frühe Hilfen’ (Early Support Services). Family midwives, paediatric nurses or voluntary family mentors (Familienpat*innen) provide practical day-to-day support for families with young children in order to reduce stress and overload. The service is free of charge and available without an application. Ask your pregnancy counselling centre, paediatrician or midwife. Information and contact points at elternsein.info.
Paperwork
Even during the first weeks of the child’s life, there is quite a bit of paperwork to take care of. The birth must be registered at the registry office (Standesamt) within one week, and health insurance cards, child benefit, parental allowance and more must be applied for. Much of this can be prepared before the birth and subsequently completed by the partner or friends, so that the postnatal period does not become an administrative marathon.
Is everything ok with the Baby?
Regular weighing, measuring, checking – is everything right with the baby, is it developing normally? What is meant to serve health and good care can unsettle parents. Every child is unique. One has protruding ears, one has hip dysplasia, a third may have ambiguous sexual characteristics. One refuses the breast or cries throughout the nights; another is given a diagnosis of developmental delay or an unfamiliar syndrome. First, take a deep breath, find out more, seek help. Do not let yourself be put under pressure. Your midwife or pregnancy counselling centre can help you put the situation in perspective and refer you to support if needed.
Parent-Child Health Retreats
Immediately after the birth – especially when it is the first – parents are fully occupied with the baby. Over the years, this can be quite exhausting. A parent-child health retreat can be helpful in order to recharge. Every four years, one parent can go on a retreat with child(ren) up to age 12. Information is available from the Müttergenesungswerk, which can also cover the personal contribution to the retreat if needed.
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