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Pregnant or a new parent over Christmas? We are still here for you 24/7

03 December 2021

Blog
Maternity
While many businesses and organisations shut down over the Christmas period, our maternity services continue as usual. St John of God Subiaco Hospital nurse manager Mieke Steele explains what to look out for and where to get help during this time.

Festive fun

The festive period can be a busy time and some women find it tiring, especially when growing a baby or caring for a newborn. Don’t forget to take it easy and make some time to put your feet up. You may not be able to do all the activities that you did last year and it may be a great opportunity to outsource the Christmas banquet to another family home. 

COVID-19

Bringing a new baby into the world during a pandemic might not be what you imagined but it is important to be mindful of COVID-19 and the different rules both in the community and when coming to hospital. Visit the Department of Health website relevant to your state for updates.  

Food

As always, avoid any foods that are not recommended during pregnancy due to the potential risk of listeria. You should also remember the safe handling of food as we move into the hot summer months. 

Fetal movement

It is still important to continue to monitor your baby’s movements during the Christmas and New Year break. Our hospitals are open 24/7 and we encourage you to call and speak to a midwife if you are concerned at any time of the day or night. 

You can visit Movements Matter for more information about fetal movements

New parents

If you have welcomed a new baby into the world and are finding a few aspects of parenting challenging feel free to call your obstetrician or hospital for advice or a referral. 

St John of God Healthcare at Home’s lactation consultants and midwives will be available for home consults every day except Christmas Day. You can self-refer to this service by calling 1300 475 442 and it is funded by your health insurer if used within the first two weeks post-birth.

Some helpful services include:

Feel free to call 

If you have any pregnancy questions throughout the Christmas break please contact your obstetrician, the maternity team at your hospital or your General Practitioner. 

Remember, help is always available! 
Mieke Steel St John of God Subiaco Hospital
Mieke Steele - Nurse Manager
Mieke Steele is the nurse manager at St John of God Subiaco Hospital's maternity ward 53. She has supported families and provided women-centered care as a midwife, and has a background in nursing and patient flow coordination.