POST-NATAL care in Guernsey is ahead of the game compared with the UK. A watchdog has told the NHS that it must ensure new mums do not just get ‘one-size-fits-all’ care.

They are instead to be provided with a programme that is tailored to individual needs.

But a Health and Social Services spokesman said such a policy was already in place locally.

‘Guernsey is fortunate to be able to offer tailored care to mothers in the post-natal period,’ he said.

‘Midwives are available for post-natal care and give advice to the women during their stay in hospital. The care given is tailored to their individual needs, depending on their birth experience.’

The spokesman added that new mums were visited regularly by either a midwife or a health visitor during the weeks after the birth.

If more help is needed after that period, then the mother will be offered home and clinic visits as and when required.

National Childbirth Trust local member Jeanne Langford said that women were generally very happy with the care that they received.

‘When occasional dissatisfaction with post-natal care is expressed, this usually occurs during a particularly busy period when midwives are occupied with women in labour.

‘However, the NCT knows that midwives are aware of these problems and are working to resolve them.’

Mrs Langford said that relevant information, given repeatedly and clearly, is hugely beneficial and could help avoid many problems.

For example, in a recent discussion with new mums, it became apparent that there was a huge variety of care received at the post-natal six-week GP check.

The Maternity Services Liaison Committee is working on a leaflet to explain what checks a woman should expect at her six-week visit and what questions she might like to put to her doctor.

‘The time after the birth is incredibly important,’ said Mrs Langford.

‘Women have needs they have not anticipated and have to cope with a huge, new responsibility. If the mother is well supported, she will cope better with her baby’s needs.’

n The NCT provides antenatal classes, which also address the most common issues likely to arise after birth.

Most women attending these courses continue to get together following the birth of their baby and frequently form a strong and supportive network of friends that lasts for years.

The NCT also provides ongoing support for mothers in the early months of parenthood.

Locally, this includes the services of two breast-feeding councillors who provide support for new mums, either over the phone or face to face.