Postnatal Ward

The WCH postnatal ward has single and shared rooms for up to 50 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 20km radius of the WCH.  An experienced midwife will visit daily until five days after the birth of your baby, after which Child and Youth Health (CYH) services are available.

Our Breastfeeding Unit is staffed by midwives expert in the area of lactation. You can come into the unit for support and advice about breastfeeding and to access information about other community services including the Australian Breastfeeding Association.

Information for families

Women are admitted to the postnatal 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.  Where possible you should plan to leave your room by 11am the day you go home.

We would like you to feel at home in the postnatal ward.  When you arrive the midwife caring for you will show you the kitchen and living areas which your visitors are also free to use.

All beds have a telephone (charges apply) and televisions available for hire.  In special circumstances arrangements can be made for a folding bed in your room for your partner or another family member. There is limited on site accommodation available for support people subject to availability. 

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 contact the Hospital for a copy.

Research Activity

The WCH has an ongoing commitment to research and evidence based practice. Many research activities are conducted with support from postnatal staff.

Hours

We provide a 24 hour service.

Contact details

Unit Head

Maternity Unit Head

Debbie Jeffs

Location

4^th floor Queen Victoria Building

Mailing Address

Postnatal Ward

Women's and Children's Hospital

72 King William Road

North Adelaide

South Australia 5006

Phone/fax/email

Ph (08) 81617958

Fax (08) 81615957

Email cywhs.muhpwest@cywhs.sa.gov.au

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