How long will you be in hospital?
If you had a VAGINAL delivery, expect to be discharged at 24 hours after you delivered.
If you had a CAESAREAN SECTION, expect to be discharged
as early as 36 – 48 hours after you delivered.
Certain people may opt for early discharge under midwifery care if it is cleared by their healthcare provider. In these cases the birthing parent and newborn will be seen in the community.
How do I know I’m ready to go home?
You and your baby may be discharged from hospital when:
Birthing Parent is…
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medically stable
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provided teaching on how to care for themself while she recovers at home
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instructed on any follow up appointments parent and baby may need.
Baby has…
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been examined by a doctor and is medically stable
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completed all of the newborn screening recommended
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a feeding plan and any follow-up feeding support if needed.
Preparing for discharge
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Transportation – Prepare ahead of time for a ride home at the time of your expected discharge. If your ride is not available at your time of discharge, you may wait in the Family Lounge until it arrives.
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Car Seat - Familiarize yourself with your car seat and learn how to use it. Have it ready to use before you leave for the hospital. Have your car seat in the car and/or bring it to your room once you have been transferred to the postpartum unit.
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Questions - Write down any questions you may have to help you remember what to ask your nurse before you go home.
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Follow Up for Baby - Your baby will need to see a family doctor or paediatrician within 2-3 days after discharge. Confirm that your family doctor is accepting newborns in their practice, or find a doctor that is.
