A Vision for Better Postpartum Care

Imagine a system where postpartum care isn’t an afterthought, but a cornerstone. Where families don’t leave hospital afraid of ‘what next’ and wondering who to call, or googling answers at 3am, or feeling like they don’t know anything - trying to clarify all of the information they’ve been given.

In my vision and intention of Midwife Michelle, every family has access to a known caregiver - someone who may have walked with them during pregnancy and can continue to walk with them after birth. Someone who shows up with evidence-based knowledge, cultural awareness, and a genuine understanding of who they are. Someone who supports their feeding goals without pressure, honours their pace, and sees the whole family, not just the baby.

This kind of care is not a luxury; it’s what every new parent deserves.

A better system would prioritise:

• In-home support, where healing and bonding happen

• Longer appointments, without the rush

• Consistent, aligned guidance, not conflicting opinions- reflecting your needs

• Emotional support, recognising the mental load parents carry

• Accessible feeding advice and recovery care, without long waits

• A familiar relationship, not a revolving door of practitioners

Postpartum care can be gentle yet powerful. It can support parents, protect mental health, strengthen feeding outcomes, and help families feel confident and connected. This vision is at the heart of the work I do.

Being invited into those early days is a privilege I never take lightly. Supporting families after birth is not just about providing clinical care - it’s about offering presence, reassurance, and continuity at a time when everything else feels new.

Midwife Michelle - walking with you in the Fourth Trimester.

Beautiful imagery by J.L. Watson Photography