Having a baby is one of life’s most exciting and joyful events. The miracle of childbirth may bring many emotions from happiness and excitement to nervousness and insecurity. Juggling the needs of a new baby and adjusting to the increased demands on you and your family’s time and energy can be overwhelming.
It is normal to experience all of these feelings after having your baby. If this is your first child, you may feel unsure of how to care for your newborn or feel that you may make a mistake. As you get to know your baby, you will realize that things you once questioned will come easier to you.
When you go home, you may also notice changes to your body, and you may have questions about how to care for yourself. To help you more easily handle the changes you are experiencing, we have created some general guidelines for you to follow after giving birth. If you cannot find answers to your questions on the following pages, please call your obstetric care provider.
You have had your baby, but there is still much to know and learn. We are here to provide you with the best possible health care and health information, and help you with any questions or concerns you may have.
A Note from BWH President Dr. Gottlieb
Congratulations on the birth of your new baby! You have joined thousands of families each year who choose to have their babies at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
We hope you are satisfied with your birthing experience at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. We pride ourselves in providing the best patient care available. As a major teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women’s Hospital is widely considered among the best in the nation. Our medical staff have achieved extensive recognition for patient care and medical research in obstetrics and gynecology, and in other areas as well. We believe that the most satisfied patients are those who are well-informed. This guide, therefore, provides you and your family with helpful information about caring for you and your new baby after leaving the hospital.
Please know that we respect the trust you have placed in Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Let us know if you have any questions or are dissatisfied in any way. We believe you have chosen the best, and we pledge to continue to provide you with the best possible care.
Gary Gottlieb, MD, MBA
President, Brigham and Women's Hospital
