Post Natal Ward

The WCH Post Natal Ward has single and shared rooms for up to 49 women and their babies.  In allocating single rooms, priority is given to people with the highest medical need. The ward is staffed by  midwives who will help you feed and care for your new family member.

When you go home from hospital we have a home visiting support service (Domiciliary Midwifery Service) for mothers and babies living within a set boundary from the WCH. An experienced midwife will visit up to 14 days after the birth of your baby, after which Child and Family Health (CFH) services are available.  Most women will generally require up to 1-2 visits.

Our Breastfeeding Unit is staffed primarily by lactation consultants or midwives exprienced in breastfeeding management. You can come into the unit for support and advice about breastfeeding and access information about other community services including the Australian Breastfeeding Association. 

Consultation in the Breastfeeding Unit is strictly by appointment, Monday to Friday. The service is closed on public holidays.

Information for Families

Women are admitted to the Post Natal Ward following the birth of their baby. For women who have a vaginal birth it is usual to stay in hospital two to three days, though some choose to go home soon after their baby is born.  Women who have had a caesarean birth should expect a slightly longer stay up o 5 days.

Where possible, you should plan to leave your room by 11.00am the day you go home

We would like you to feel at home in the Post Natal Ward.  When you arrive, the midwife caring for you will show you the kitchen and living areas.  Kitchen/pantry facilities are available for use by patients only.

All beds have a telephone (charges apply) and televisions are available for hire. 

Unfortunately, the Post Natal Ward does not provide overnight accommodation for partners or family members.  

We encourage you to wear comfortable clothing. A list of what to bring to hospital is detailed in 'Having Your Baby at WCH' which you can download or please contact the Hospital for a copy.

Visiting Hours

Our visiting hours are strictly from 1.00pm - 8.00pm

Partners and siblings of the new baby may visit from 8.30am - 9.00pm. Siblings must be under adult supervision at all times.

We ask that you notify your family and friends of the visiting hours

Research Activity

The WCH has an ongoing commitment to research and evidence based practice. Many research activities are conducted on the ward with support from Post Natal staff.

Hours

We provide a 24 hour service.

Contact Details

Clinical Service Coordinator - Belinda Biddle

Location

4th Floor - Queen Victoria Building

Mailing Address

Post Natal Ward
Women's and Children's Hospital
72 King William Road
North Adelaide
South Australia 5006

Phone/Fax/Email

Phone: (08) 8161 7955

Fax:     (08) 8161 5957

Email:  belinda.biddle@health.sa.gov.au

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