Four hours to 24 hours after vaginal delivery

• Continue to eat nutritious meals. Drink eight ounces of fluid every two hours.
• Feed your baby by yourself when you recognize your baby is hungry (at least eight to 12 times a day if breastfeeding; about every four hours if bottle-feeding).
• Have your baby’s newborn screenings conducted (hearing and blood test).
• Have your baby’s professional photos taken, if desired.
• Have your baby circumcised, if desired, and understand how to care for the circumcision.
• Have someone bring in your car seat for a safe ride home.
• Read over your baby’s birth certificate for accuracy.
• Ask your nurse which hospital supplies may go home with you and your baby.
• Express comfort and confidence in caring for yourself and your baby.
• Review warning signs, and know when to call your doctor, certified nurse-midwife (CNM), your baby’s doctor or our Breastfeeding Center @ Park Nicollet.
• Talk with your doctor, CNM and baby’s doctor about when you will be ready to go home.

If questions arise once you are home, contact your obstetrician or CNM.