Taking your new baby home from the hospital can feel exciting and a little scary. You might feel happy and worried at the same time. A hospital midwife may visit you at home to help in the early days. After that, a child and family health nurse or other services can support you, your baby, and your family.  

What is the Midwifery Support Program (MSP)?

MSP is a service for women who have had a vaginal or caesarean birth and are going home early. A hospital midwife visits you at home to give safe care to you and your baby after birth.  

Benefits of MSP

A midwife visits you at home to give one-on-one care. You can ask questions, get help, and feel more confident feeding and caring for your baby.  Your partner and family can support you too. You can rest in your own home, where it is quiet and comfortable.

What do I do if I need help between my midwife visits?

You can call the hospital any time, day or night, to talk to a midwife. All women in the program can also use other hospital services if needed.

How can I join?

Talk to your midwife or doctor when you have your pregnancy care visits. Let them know after your baby is born.  

What happens after the midwife stops visiting?

You can call the Child and Family Health service on 1800 455 511 when you leave hospital.  

The service is free for all families with children 0-5 years of age.  

It offers support and programs, these include:

• developmental health checks  
• breastfeeding assistance
• and baby settling guidance.  

Our services also include parenting groups and support for general parenting and toddler-related concerns.