After delivery baby is placed on doctor's lap & the {umbilical cord} cut & tied. Baby is then wrapped in a towel & handed to mother to allow {bonding} to occur. If baby isn't breathing properly, or hasn't cried, a small suction tube will be passed into the {airway}. If required, {oxygen} can be given to help breathing & when established, baby is returned to mother.
Sometimes, it's necessary to stitch up the {perineum}, particularly after an {episiotomy}. Mother & baby are then cleaned & returned to a ward to rest. The time spent in hospital afterwards will depend on you & your baby's progress. If it's your 1st baby, then you'll need to stay about 5 days (48hrs for 2nd baby). If you have undergone a {cesarean section} you will stay for 7-10 days.
While in hospital, you'll be taught how to handle, bathe & feed baby, & to change diapers. Advice & instructions about breast feeding will be given, but some difficulties may occur when at home. Make sure you prepare for baby's homecoming in advance; ensure adequate supplies of clothes, diapers & feeding bottles.
