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GM Urgent Sexual Health Referrals_ To display

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Mums Matter: Supporting New Mums in Manchester - Manchester Mind

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Recovery information after caesarean section 

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Recovery information after caesarean section 

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Explanation of common symptoms/ problems

A caesarean section is a major operation and will take several weeks to recover from (it generally takes longer than if you have had a vaginal birth). It is therefore important that you can have time to rest but also know what to do to help your body recover. This webpage will provide you with information to help you with your recovery.

Approximately 25% of women in the UK have their baby by caesarean section. This may be due to:

Your baby being in the breech position in late pregnancy

A low-lying placenta (placenta previa)

High blood pressure in pregnancy (pre-eclampsia)

Certain infections in late pregnancy

Not enough oxygen and nutrients getting to your baby

Labour not progressing

Your choice (due to different concerns about birth or having had a previous caesarean)

In the first week or two after having a caesarean it is common to experience discomfort or even pain when getting in/out of bed, walking any distance, carrying out any activities that cause strain on your tummy and when going to the toilet to pass urine or open your bowels. This is because of the wound in your tummy and womb and how your tummy muscles, bladder and bowel have been moved around during surgery. Having an anesthetic and pain medication can also leave you feeling more tired than usual and can sometimes cause sickness.

Usually the wound heals well and scar tissue will form within 3-4 weeks. A few women may get a wound infection, so if your pain is not settling, the wound becomes hot and red or you notice a discharge from your wound, tell your GP or midwife straight away. As the scar forms it can leave a strange numb feeling over it. For a few women too much scar tissue can form and leave the scar feeling tight and sore.

You may notice or have been told by a midwife or physiotherapist that your tummy muscles have separated during your pregnancy. This is known as diastasis rectus abdominus muscle or DRAM. Having a DRAM as well as a caesarean can leave your tummy muscles along with your pelvic floor muscles feeling very weak. Follow the link to DRAM to find out more and what to do about it.

Self help / Advice

In the first couple of days after your caesarean, whilst you are still in hospital, it is important to start moving as soon as possible. This will help with your circulation and breathing and stop your muscles and joints becoming too stiff and sore. You will be given some pain relief to help you move more easily and it is important to keep taking this at regular intervals.

You will have a catheter in your bladder for approximately 12 hours after your caesarean. It is important that you start eating and drinking normally as soon as you can so that once the catheter is removed you can start passing urine on your own. If you are having problems passing urine in the first few hours after your catheter is removed, tell your midwife.

It is normal to pass urine every three to four hours. Try to avoid going to the toilet 'just in case' see top 10 tips.

Eating and drinking normally will also help your bowels to work although it can be a couple of days after birth before this happens. It is important to avoid constipation as straining to empty your bowels will put pressure on your wound and pelvic floor muscles, which isn't helpful for their recovery. Follow the link for Healthy Bowels.

Your wound dressing will come off after a couple of days. It is fine to have a bath or shower as soon as you feel able to after birth. Wash over your wound with warm water, avoiding too much soap/ body wash over the area. It is important to keep the area clean and dry.

Here are some suggestions for comfortable resting/ sleeping positions.

It should also be easier to get in and out of bed by gently rolling onto your side ( Follow the link to Fit for the Future leaflet).

Do some deep breathing in the first couple of weeks after having a caesarean (three slow breaths one after the other). This will help to get more air into your lungs and help to relax your tummy muscles. Placing a pillow or towel over your tummy and supporting it will help to make it feel more comfortable when you cough, sneeze or open your bowels.

Where possible avoid doing activities that put strain on your tummy. It is best to lift nothing heavier than your baby for the first 6 weeks. If you have a toddler that does need to be lifted and carried try to do this only when necessary, encourage them to stand on a step or high surface for you to lift them from and bend from your knees keeping your back straight (see diagram).

Once your wound has healed over and the scar tissue has formed you can start to gently massage over it. You can use an oil such as coconut or bio oil whilst massaging. Try to do this every day. It will help to reduce sensitivity and/or tightness of the scar tissue.

Avoid driving for 4-6 weeks. When you do decide to drive, make sure that you are covered by your insurance company and that you feel comfortable performing an emergency stop if it is needed.

It is good to do some gentle exercise in the first 6 weeks after your caesarean. Start your pelvic floor muscles exercises as soon as is comfortable after your catheter is removed. There are also some gentle tummy exercises that you can do (see Fit for the Future booklet) These exercises are suitable to do even if you have a DRAM. And walking is a good form of exercise. Just remember to build speed and distance up gradually as it feels comfortable.

If you are feeling well after your 6-8 week postnatal check with your GP you can start some brisk walking and start swimming. Don't start back with high impact exercises too soon such as running, Zumba, cross fit. (see link to postnatal running guidelines below).

Return to sexual intercourse when you feel ready and have arranged which contraception to use. Start gently and you may find it helpful to use a water-based lubricant for comfort.

Where to go next
Find a Physiotherapist
If you are experiencing any of the problems mentioned on this page discuss them with your GP or midwife. It may be that seeing a specialist women's health physiotherapist will be helpful to you. Your GP or midwife can refer you or in some locations you can refer yourself. The POGP may also be able to put you in touch with a women's health physiotherapist near to where you live.

Other good sources of information:

What to expect from physiotherapy

A women's health physiotherapist can help you with several problems after a caesarean such as:

Low back pain or pelvic girdle pain

Urinary incontinence or faecal incontinence

Pain from your caesarean scar

Problems with returning to sex

General difficulty getting back to daily activities or exercise

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Explanation of common symptoms/ problems A caesarean section is a major operation and will take several weeks to recover from (it generally takes longer than if you have had a vaginal birth). It is therefore important that you can have time to rest but also know what to do to help your body recover.

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Caring for Baby at night and when sleeping

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Caring for Baby at night and when sleeping

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SAFETY INFO: Formula Milk Recall (February 2026)

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SAFETY INFO: Formula Milk Recall (February 2026)

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Nestle has recalled SMA Infant Formula and Follow-On Formula because of the the presence of cereulide (toxin)

Click to see if you have a product that could be effected and return it to the store.

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Update 3 Nestle recalls SMA Infant Formula

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Discharge information - St Mary's, North Manchester and Wythenshawe

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Discharge information - St Mary's, North Manchester and Wythenshawe

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Signs of a poorly baby

Baby Check App (The Lullaby Trust)

Basic First Aid for babies and infants

Birth to Five Book

Car Seat Safety

Jaundice in your baby

Jaundice (NHS)

Vitamin K information

Tips for new parents

Baby's crying

Parents advice for crying babies

Vitamin D for baby

Male circumcision

Nappy Rash

Cradle Cap

Neonatal Unit information

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Self-feeding pillows/prop feeders present a risk of serious harm or death from choking or aspiration pneumonia.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards has issued an Urgent Safety Alert for baby self-feeding pillows and is urging the public to stop using them immediately and dispose of them safely.

Businesses selling these products must immediately remove them from the market as they cannot comply with the safety requirements under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.

Baby self-feeding pillow products are designed to be attached to a bottle so that the baby may be positioned on its back to self-feed without the assistance of a caregiver holding the bottle and controlling the feed.

This is inconsistent with NHS guidance in relation to safe bottle feeding.

When used as intended, even whilst under the supervision of a caregiver, it could lead to immediate, serious harm or death from choking or aspiration pneumonia.

Consumers, local authority trading standards services and businesses are asked to take specific action to cease use or remove these products from the market as advised below.

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OPSS has identified that this category of products will always be dangerous due to their design and intended use and can never be made safe.

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Consumers should immediately stop using these products and dispose of them safely.

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Must immediately remove these products from the market as they cannot comply with the safety requirements under the General Product Safety Regulations, 2005.

Must comply with their obligations under product safety law.

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Urgent Safety Alert issued for baby self-feeding pillows

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Medication options for high blood pressure

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Medication options for high blood pressure

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Advice about stitches, piles, bleeding and other physical changes after birth, plus tips to help you make a healthy recovery.

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Free antenatal and postnatal exercise videos and information 

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Free antenatal and postnatal exercise videos and information 

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Videos from 10 minutes to 50 minutes long, so you choose what suits you best!

Yoga

Pilates

Core workouts

Cardio and strength training

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Pregnancy workout videos - We offer various intensity levels to ensure you're comfortable through your pregnancy journey.

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Get vouchers towards fruit, vegetables and milk for you and your baby

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We are moving from paper vouchers to the Healthy Start card. We will send the last paper vouchers out on the week starting the 7th March. You can still use any valid vouchers to get free vitamins.

Why you should get your free Healthy Start vitamins

Young children may not get enough vitamin A and D even if they are eating well. If you are pregnant and breastfeeding you may not get enough vitamin C or D or folic acid.

You can use your Healthy Start card to get these important vitamins for free. These come as NHS Healthy Start tablets and drops for children.

They do not contain milk, egg, gluten, soya or peanut residues. They're suitable for vegetarians and halal diets.

You can get the vitamin tablets while you're pregnant and up to your baby's 1st birthday. They contain:

folic acid which lowers the chance of babies having spinal problems

vitamin C which helps the body's soft tissue

vitamin D which helps babies' bones to develop properly

Children can take vitamin drops if they:

are less than 4 years old

have less than 500ml (about one pint) of infant formula a day - as formula already has vitamins added to it

Healthy Start vitamins come as an 8-week supply of:

56 tablets (a daily dose of 1 tablet)

280 drops (a daily dose of 5 drops)

You or your children should not take more than the recommended amount.

Find out more about the vitamins you and your baby need and why (opens in a new tab).

How to get free vitamins if you live in England

Ask your midwife or health visitor where to get your free vitamins.

You can also find who stocks Healthy Start vitamins in your local area (opens in a new tab).

To collect your free vitamins, you'll have to show your Healthy Start card or vouchers.

How to get free vitamins if you live in Wales

You can collect free vitamins at your local health board. You will need to show your Healthy Start card or vouchers.

How to get free vitamins if you live in Northern Ireland and have a Healthy Start card

If you are eligible, we will send you a letter explaining how to request your free vitamins. We will check your request and send your order to the Business Services Organisation (opens in a new tab) in Northern Ireland. They will then post the vitamins to you.

How to get free vitamins if you live in Northern Ireland and have valid paper vouchers

Put your vitamin vouchers and the Healthy Start letter that comes with them in an envelope. Send the envelope to:

Business Services Organisation
Healthy Start vitamin scheme
Pinewood Villa
73 Loughgall Road
Armagh
BT61 7PR

The Business Services Organisation (opens in a new tab) will then post the vitamins to you.

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We are moving from paper vouchers to the Healthy Start card. We will send the last paper vouchers out on the week starting the 7th March. You can still use any valid vouchers to get free vitamins. Young children may not get enough vitamin A and D even if they are eating well.

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Our mobile food clubs make life more affordable for people on low incomes, build stronger communities and reduce food waste.

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Active Pregnancy Foundation - Postnatal CMO Guidelines

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This free app can help you know what to do if you think your baby is unwell.

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If you’re worried your baby is unwell, our free Baby Check app helps you decide whether they need to see a health professional or not…

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Learn skills to help a baby or child in a first aid emergency

Our First Aid skills are simple, easy-to-learn, and suitable for anyone looking to learn first aid and help others in an emergency. Explore the different skills below to enhance your own learning so you may be able to assist during an emergency.

Staying safe while giving first aid

Please always consider your personal safety when giving first aid. Look out for any dangers and only act when you're confident it is safe to do so.

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Learn simple first aid skills for babies and children so you will feel confident to help in an emergency.

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Tehneek information (British Muslim Heritage Centre) 

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Tehneek information (British Muslim Heritage Centre) 

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Cough and cold remedies and Breastfeeding - Cough and cold remedies and Breastfeeding - The Breastfeeding Network

Decongestants and Breastfeeding - https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/factsheet/decongestants/

Sore throats and Breastfeeding  - https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/factsheet/sore-throats/

Alcohol and Breastfeeding - Alcohol and Breastfeeding - The Breastfeeding Network

Mastitis guidance - Mastitis Information - The Breastfeeding Network

Vaccinations and Breastfeeding  - https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/factsheet/vaccinations/

Vitamin D and Breastfeeding - https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/factsheet/vitamind/

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Drugs in Breastmilk factsheets - The Breastfeeding Network

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These factsheets have been compiled by our Drugs in Breastmilk information service team of pharmacists. If you are unable to find the information you are looking for below, or you still have questions, you can contact the team by sending a private message via our Facebook page or via email. Please provide as much information as possible (age […]

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An increasing number of mothers and health professionals have sought to find more information on the levels of medicines passing through milk to the baby. Standard reference books such as the British National Formulary (BNF) provide little information for professionals and parents to make decisions on individual situations. BfN endeavours to provide information to enable mothers to breastfeed their babies for as long as they wish and to provide information on the safety of medicines for each mother and baby pair.

Please use the below links for more information

We are constantly reviewing the information available on drugs and breastfeeding as new research is conducted. Therefore, from time-to-time the information on this website may be updated - please be sure to check regularly for any new information and changes to the drug information fact sheets and leaflets.

What is the Drugs in Breastmilk Information Service?

The original Drugs in Breastmilk Helpline was set up by BfN in response to the number of calls we were receiving that concerned medication.

In 2017 we noticed that majority of enquiries from parents and professionals to the Drugs in Breastmilk Helpline were coming via email or social media. As a charity operating on reducing funds we need to run the service in the most efficient and effective way possible without compromising the needs of parents. As a result we decided to run the Drugs in Breastmilk service via email and social media enquiry only.

You can still access information on taking prescription drugs while breastfeeding by sending a private message via our Facebook page or via . Please provide as much information as possible (age of baby, dose, frequency and name of medication or drug). All enquiries are answered as soon as possible by one of our small, volunteer team of qualified pharmacists or breastfeeding supporters. As we can't guarantee a response time, in an emergency situation, please do not wait for our reply, but access help from a trained healthcare professional.

If you call the old Drugs in Breastmilk helpline 0844 number, you will hear a recorded message with information about where to access alternative support. Calls won't be answered live and there is no voicemail service available.

If you still have the Drugs in Breastmilk helpline number on any materials or web pages please could you remove it and replace it with the following information:
'If you have specific questions about medications or treatments, please message the Drugs in Breastmilk information service Facebook page or email druginformation@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk. If you require breastfeeding support, please call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212."

The service is open to mothers and professionals. As the time available to deal with breastfeeding support of mothers is limited, professionals are encouraged to find out the information to enable them to support the mothers themselves.

Evaluation of the Drugs in Breastmilk Information Service

In 2019, BfN commissioned Swansea University to undertake an evaluation of the DIBM service we offer. The executive summary of this report can be found and the full report can be found .

Become a Friend of Drugs in Breastmilk

Please click here for more information on how you can help support this vital service.

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Drugs In Breastmilk - Is It Safe? - The Breastfeeding Network

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An increasing number of mothers and health professionals have sought to find more information on the levels of medicines passing through milk to the baby. Standard reference books such as the British National Formulary (BNF) provide little information for professionals and parents to make decisions on individual situations.

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Welcome to this padlet which will help you find reliable websites and leaflets that we recommend with information to support you after you have had your baby.

Scroll across the page to see all of the sections or use the search bar to find a specific subject.

Triage phone numbers:

North Manchester: 0161 922 3167

Oxford Road: 0161 276 6567​

Wythenshawe : 0161 291 2724​

Community midwife phone numbers:

North Manchester:0161 720 2133

Oxford Road: 0161 276 6246

Wythenshawe: 0161 291 2996

Salford: 0161 470 6895

Bolton: 01204 390 023

Oldham: 0161 206 8414/ 0161 778 5811

Stepping Hill 0161 419 5679

Tameside: 0161 922 6655

Wigan: 01942 778 631

Macclesfield: 01625 661 145/ 01625 551 153

If you have a concern about yourself please contact your midwife or maternity triage. For concerns with your baby, please contact your GP, NHS111 or if urgent call 999 or go to an A+E department.

Any advice on third party websites does not replace advice from a health professional.

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There are many types of contraception available and none are perfect. The Contraception Choices website provides honest information to help weigh up the pros and cons.

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Introduction to infant feeding video (20 mins)

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Introduction to infant feeding video (20 mins)

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Manchester Infant Feeding Team Introduction to Infant Feeding (P)

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First Steps Nutrition Trust- Breastmilk and breastfeeding information 

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First Steps Nutrition Trust- Breastmilk and breastfeeding information 

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How to get baby onto the breast properly to avoid sore nipples

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How to get baby onto the breast properly to avoid sore nipples

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In this video, a breastfeeding counsellor helps a mother with her positioning and attachment whilst breastfeeding.

Key to achieving the Baby Friendly standards is a workforce able to support mothers to breastfeed effectively. This video provides some guidance on this.

You can see more of the 'From Bump to Breastfeeding' DVD on the Best Beginnings website.

Video not working? Contact us

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Positioning and attachment video - Baby Friendly Initiativ

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In this video, a breastfeeding counsellor helps a mother with her positioning and attachment whilst breastfeeding. Watch to learn more.

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Good attachment will help a baby get more milk and make breastfeeding more comfortable. This video shows why good attachment is so important to breastfeeding success and what a mother can do to deeply attach her baby to her breast.

Join the Conversation

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Attaching Your Baby at the Breast - Video - Global Health Media Project

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Good attachment will help a baby get more milk and make breastfeeding more comfortable. This video shows why good attachment is so important to breastfeeding success and what a mother can do to deeply attach her baby to her breast.

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Breastfeeding info and videos in other languages

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Breastfeeding info and videos in other languages

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25 Things every baby would want you to know

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25 Things every baby would want you to know

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Learning What Your Newborn Is Saying

My Language

Right from birth and well before your baby speaks their first words, they are communicating with you through their behaviour. This communication can be as clear as a good loud cry or as subtle as a slight movement of their eyebrow. Think of all your baby's movements, expressions and responses as phrases they use to communicate with you- the unspoken words of their first language. Watch for, observe and interpret the meaning of your baby's signals and cues and you will soon become familiar with what they are saying and get to know them very well.

Window Into My World

Your baby's cues are completely trustworthy and authentic responses giving you information about what care they need and what they like and dislike. Unlike adults, there is no discrepancy between the feeling and its expression. Your baby cannot mask their feelings so what you observe you can trust unconditionally.

My Favourite Toy

Your baby not only knows your face and voice but also loves nothing more than connecting with you when they are in a quiet and alert state. They are much more engaged with your expressions and slow directed speech than they are in a toy. Have your face at a distance of around 10-18 inches. They will enjoy following your face and finding your voice- see their inborn hunger to connect with you.

Watch and Wait

When your baby's eyes are heavy or flicker open and closed, they are in a kind of 'no man's land' between sleep and wakefulness. As much as you would love to play, your baby is asking for you to wait for them during this transitional state. You will soon see if they are going back to sleep or ready to wake up.

Do Not Disturb

At this early stage, your baby will sleep for long periods in the day as they grow and develop rapidly. Your baby has an amazing ability to selectively tune out sounds and bright lights to preserve their sleep. They also appreciate your support in minimising disturbances in the environment.

Learning Emotions

Your baby feels validated and learns to understand how different emotions feel when you reflect those for them. When they have bright smiling eyes, beam back at them. When they are upset show them you sympathise with what is bothering them are ready to help.

Clever Me

Along with support from you, your baby has amazing inbuilt abilities to help himself/herself stay calm and organised; especially if they are beginning to feel a little overwhelmed from the environment and stimulation around them. Admire how focusing in on an object or the rhythmic suck of their hand calms them.

Grow My Brain

Your baby is exquisitely sensitive to your touch, words and affirmation. Every loving response and every social experience will leave imprints on their brain, major transformations at this time of rapid brain development. When your baby is in a quiet, alert state, take every opportunity to interact. You will be deepening their sense of security and laying the foundations of a relationship that will last a lifetime.

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Learning What Your Newborn Baby Is Saying - Brazelton Centre UK

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Right from birth and well before your baby speaks their first words, they are communicating with you through their behaviour. This communication can be as clear as a good loud cry or as subtle as a slight movement of their eyebrow.

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Tiny Happy People - Activities for 0-3 month olds

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Things to do with children aged 0-3 months. Find ways to bond with your newborn and help with their early communication and listening skills.

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Proud 2 b Parents is an inclusive organisation for all routes to parenthood. We are run by and deliver services for LGBT+ parents/ carers to be , LGBT+ parents/ carers and their children living in Greater Manchester.

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Infant Feeding Support sessions May  2026

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Manchester Infant Feeding Team information leaflet

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Manchester Infant Feeding Team information leaflet

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Infant Feeding Team (IFT) Service Leaflet and Clinic List 2025

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This text-free safe sleep video follows Lullaby Trust guidelines, showing parents how to create a safe sleep environment for babies. 

It highlights placing babies on their back to sleep in their own sleep space, using a firm mattress, and avoiding loose bedding or soft objects. 

The video also emphasises maintaining a safe room temperature away from radiators. 

With text-free visuals, it provides easy-to-follow guidance for promoting safe and restful sleep.

Created by Helen Kerley, Registered Nurse and Student Health Visitor. June 2025.

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A mum supported by Home-Start Trafford, Salford and Wigan

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Infant Feeding - Home-Start Trafford Salford and Wigan

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“Home-Start has made such a difference to my life. The parent I am today is because of Home-Start” A mum supported by Home-Start Trafford, Salford…

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Find out more about jaundice, a common and usually harmless condition in newborn babies that causes yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes.

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Vitamin K for newborn babies to prevent vitamin K deficiency bleeding – Medicines For Children

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This leaflet is for parents and carers about how to use this medicine in children. Our information may differ from that provided by the manufacturers, because their information usually relates to adults. Read this leaflet carefully. Keep it somewhere safe so that you can read it again.

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Discover your Community Grocer for a basket of food & household essentials, good health, skills and belonging.

Our £2.50-£3 per week membership scheme is the perfect way to ensure any budget can provide fresh nutritious meals for you and your family. Contact your local coordinator using the details below.

And we have a new membership model at Gorton Community Grocer where your friendly project coordinator can support you to access services & support for issues such as health, finances, housing and wellbeing.

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Discover your Community Grocer for a basket of food & household essentials, good health, skills and belonging. Our friendly project coordinators can also signpost you to support services for issues such as health, finances, housing and wellbeing.

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Food Banks | Greater Together Manchester

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Find your local food project and contact them for support

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The Booth Centre is a community centre run with people affected by homelessness.

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Damp and mould in social housing - Shelter England

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How to sort out damp and mould in council and housing association homes, from working out the cause and dealing with your landlord to getting compensation.

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Whoever you are, whatever the problem

Citizens Advice provides free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities.

Our aim is to:
Provide the advice people need for the problems they face. Improve the policies and practices that affect people's lives.

Get Help

Citizens Advice Manchester offers free, confidential, impartial and independent advice and information on a wide range of subjects. Get in touch in a way that works for you.

Volunteering can be hugely rewarding! If you'd like to boost your CV and enhance your skills for life and work or simply help people from your community, then you should consider volunteering for us. We're one of a network of over 400 bureaux across England and Wales. You may even have visited us for advice - over 40% of the population has!

Last year we helped 50,000 people in the city take charge of their finances by offering guidance and support on debt and benefits. Helped thousands of families into secure housing, supported victims of crime, worked with people struggling to remain in or find employment and provided access to the skills and advice that will allow parents to give their children the best start in life. Our advice makes communities more independent, saves time and money for public services, and brings income into the region.

People helped
Last year we supported over 50 thousand people from across the city find a way forward with their problem.

Problems resolved
Our advisers were able to resolve nearly a quarter of a million problems that were presented to them in the last 12 months.

£9 million
We increased the incomes of our residents through debts written off, benefits gained and consumer compensation for local people.

As well as providing advice, every Citizens Advice Manchester has a twin aim of collecting evidence from clients' experiences - and our experiences of advising them - and using this to campaign for positive changes that can benefit everybody, and not just people who come in to us.

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Citizens Advice Manchester offers free, confidential, impartial and independent advice and information on a wide range of subjects.

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Resolve Poverty does not provide advice or financial support for individuals seeking assistance with any issues relating to their circumstances. Please visit our maps to find your nearest support service. For other matters including media enquiries please call: 07561853933

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Money Advice Referral Tool (MART) Resolve Poverty believes that responses to poverty should focus on getting more money into people's pockets. That's why one of our strategic priorities is to support local efforts to boost household income and financial resilience. For many frontline organisations helping people dealing with poverty, information on where to refer people...

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Use the Turn2us Benefits Calculator to find out which welfare benefits you may be entitled to.

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Maternity Action GMEC Service Intro for Maternity

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Help with the cost of living crisis | Manchester City Council

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Helping hands - advice on debt, bills and making your money go further

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Family Hubs and Children's centre's have many activities and support services for new parents and babies.

Find a Family Hub

Find a children's centre on a map

Find a children's centre by postcode

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Generic New Baby & Me Leaflet No Venue V1.1

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Advice for patients that have had a C-section

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Instagram: @walking_mums_club

Facebook:- Walking Mums Club facebook page

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Fresh air, being in nature, walking, talking, learning and hysterical laughing (we blame sleep deprivation!) are all great for you (and your baby). That’s why we set up Walking Mum’s Club. We’ve built an inclusive community of parents who walk together across parks in Greater Manchester, building new friendships, supporting each other and sharing stories of their parental journeys. Come join us on a walk in your local park. It’s a great way to link in to an amazing support network that may (often) lead to life long friends : )

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Find Your Active

Check out our activity-based resources packed with advice and top tips to support you on your active journey through pregnancy and beyond

Aquanatal, Cycling, Dancing, Home Workouts, Personal Training, Pilates, Resistance Training, Running, Swimming, Yoga, Swimming, Walking

At last, some clear and friendly guides to help you navigate through your active pregnancy!

With so much confusing information online, it is difficult to know where to turn for trustworthy advice and guidance.

If you are unsure about whether your usual activities are safe and suitable, you want to start getting more active, or try something different at this stage in your life, why not check out our 'Find Your Active' resources. Written in collaboration with experts, in the context of the national guidance, you can now access top tips and do's/don'ts to guide you through your chosen activities during pregnancy and beyond.

These resources are free to use and download, but if you like the work of the APF, and would like to see more of this, please consider donating.

Want to find out more?

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Find Your Active Check out our activity-based resources packed with advice and top tips to support you on your active journey through pregnancy and beyond Aquanatal, Cycling, Dancing, Home Workouts, Personal Training, Pilates, Resistance Training, Running, Swimming, Yoga, Swimming, Walking At last, some clear and friendly guides to help you navigate through your active pregnancy!

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Welcome to the POGP Pregnancy and Early Postnatal section.

Find out more about pregnancy and early postnatal topics on our dedicated pages:

External links

Coming soon - collection of videos featuring women who have spoken out about their experience of suffering from the effects of an obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI)

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Welcome to the POGP Pregnancy and Early Postnatal section.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The great news is there's no evidence of harm for postpartum women to begin a gradual return to moderate intensity physical activity and strength training. The key is to listen to your body and start gradually, whatever your levels of activity before or during pregnancy.

There are some symptons you do need to look out for, and if you have any of the following then intense physical activity should NOT be resumed.

Urinary and/or faecal incontinence

Urinary and/or faecal urgency that is difficult to defer

Heaviness / pressure / bulge / dragging in the pelvic area

Pain with intercourse

Obstruction defecation

Pendular abdomen, seperated abdominal muscles and/or decreased abdominal strength and function

Musculoskeletal lumbopelvic pain

If you not sure what these are and you are experiencing pain, then please seek advice from a healthcare professional or physiotherapist.

Disclaimer

Anyone taking part in the Couch to Fitness Postnatal Programme does so at their own risk.

Couch to Fitness does not accept any responsibility for any individual or group of individuals, who may be participating in the Couch to Fitness Postnatal Programme. To take part in the Couch to Fitness Postnatal Programme, you must be in good physical health. If you've been told on health or medical grounds that you should not take part in moderate intensity physical activities, then you should not be joining in with this workout. By taking part in this exercise and fitness session, you agree to the above terms and conditions.

To perform this activity in a safe way, you must make sure that the area you use is suitable.

Where referring to 'women' or 'mothers', this should be taken to include all people who are pregnant or have given birth.

Where referring to 'women' or 'mothers', this should be taken to include all people who are pregnant or have given birth.

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Frequently Asked Questions The great news is there's no evidence of harm for postpartum women to begin a gradual return to moderate intensity physical activity and strength training. The key is to listen to your body and start gradually, whatever your levels of activity before or during pregnancy.

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This hub aims to inform about the types of tears that can occur during childbirth, how to minimise your risk of deeper tearing, and what can be done to help your recovery if you do tear.

We also aim to support you to take prompt action if you have any concerns about your recovery, helping you feel better informed when discussing any topics with a healthcare professional.

This information has been developed by the OASI Care Bundle Project Team, the OASI Care Bundle Clinical Champions and perineal specialists.

It is based on the RCOG Green-top Guideline No.29 The Management of Third and Fourth Degree Tears (June 2015) and expert opinion from the above named developers and key stakeholders in line with RCOG due process.

Please give us your feedback

We would like to understand how people are using this resource to help ensure it is relevant and useful. To give us your feedback, please complete our short survey.If you have any questions, please email womensvoices@rcog.org.uk

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Perineal tears and episiotomies in childbirth

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Welcome to our hub for perineal tears and episiotomies in childbirth.

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During this online video session, we will talk about our three key topics; Attachment and Bonding, Mum's and Dad's Mental Health and Wellbeing and Access to Appropriate Services. We will also cover Labour, Birth and Beyond from a Dad's perspective.

Because the session is a virtual group, with facilitators live on the end of a webcam, there will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions, make comments, and listen to other dads experiences.

To book on to your local session use the buttons below.

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During this online video session, we will talk about our three key topics; Attachment and Bonding, Mum's and Dad's Mental Health and Wellbeing and Access to Appropriate Services. We will also cover Labour, Birth and Beyond from a Dad's perspective.

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Welcome to the contraception guide

"Where can I get contraception?"

"Which method of contraception suits me?"

"I'm under 16 - can I get contraception?"

Whatever questions you have about getting and using contraception, this guide can help.

It aims to give practical information to everyone who wants to know more about contraception, or who may have a question about the method they use or are thinking about using.

You can find out about the different methods available on the NHS, together with where to get them and how to decide which method might work best for you.

Finding your way around

If you're viewing this page on a computer screen, use the blue tabs at the top of the page to see a full menu for each section of the contraception guide.

If you can't find what you're after, try the search box at the top of the page - it covers everything on the NHS website.

If you're viewing this on a mobile device, use the blue sections at the top of the page and you'll see a list of all the topics covered in this guide.

Popular subjects and pages

You can start by finding out about the methods of contraception you can choose from, including how they work, who can use them and possible side effects.

These methods are:

There are 2 permanent methods of contraception:

You can also read about emergency contraception, which can be used after unprotected sex or if your normal method of contraception fails.

You can also find out about:

Deciding which method suits you

Which method works best for you depends on a number of factors, including your age, whether you smoke, your medical and family history, and any medicines you're taking.

Find out more in Which method suits me?

Where you can get contraception and emergency contraception

Contraception is free on the NHS. Find out where to get contraception and search by postcode to find:

You can also find out where to get emergency contraception - the "morning after pill" or the IUD (coil).

Common questions about contraception

Get answers to some common questions about getting and using contraception, including:

There are more questions and answers if you use the blue tabs at the top of the page under the section "Worries and questions" and "Questions about the pill".

Page last reviewed: 17 March 2021
Next review due: 17 March 2024

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"Where can I get contraception?" "Which method of contraception suits me?" "I'm under 16 - can I get contraception?" Whatever questions you have about getting and using contraception, this guide can help. It aims to give practical information to everyone who wants to know more about contraception, or who may have a question about the method they use or are thinking about using.

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We would appreciate your feedback on the information on this page. Please click below to take a short 5 minute survey. 

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We would appreciate your feedback on the information on this page. Please click below to take a short 5 minute survey. 

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Saint Marys' Postnatal Padlet patient feedback

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Web survey powered by SurveyMonkey.com. Create your own online survey now with SurveyMonkey's expert certified FREE templates.

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Neurological Complications. Hindi Proofread - Amended

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You'll probably be in hospital for 1 or 2 days after a caesarean section, and may need to take things easy for several weeks.

Recovering in hospital

Most women can leave hospital 1 or 2 days after having a caesarean section.

While in hospital:

you'll be given painkillers to reduce any discomfort

you'll have regular close contact with your baby and can start breastfeeding

you'll be encouraged to get out of bed and move around as soon as possible

you can eat and drink as soon as you feel hungry or thirsty

a thin, flexible tube called a catheter will remain in your bladder for at least 12 hours

your wound will be covered with a dressing for at least 24 hours

When you're well enough to go home, you'll need to arrange for someone to give you a lift as you will not be able to drive for a few weeks.

Looking after your wound

Your midwife should also advise you on how to look after your wound.

You'll usually be advised to:

gently clean and dry the wound every day

wear loose, comfortable clothes and cotton underwear

take a painkiller if the wound is sore - for most women, it's better to take paracetamol or ibuprofen (but not aspirin) while you're breastfeeding

watch out for signs of infection

Non-dissolvable stitches or staples will usually be taken out by your midwife after 5 to 7 days.

Your scar

The wound in your tummy will eventually form a scar.

This will usually be a horizontal scar about 10 to 20cm long, just below your bikini line.

In rare cases, you may have a vertical scar just below your bellybutton.

The scar will probably be red and obvious at first, but should fade with time and will often be hidden by your pubic hair.

On darker skin, the scar tissue may fade to leave a brown or white mark.

Controlling pain and bleeding

Most women experience some discomfort for the first few days after a caesarean, and for some women the pain can last several weeks.

You should make sure you have regular painkillers to take at home for as long as you need them, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.

Aspirin and the stronger painkiller codeine present in co-codamol is not usually recommended if you're breastfeeding.

Your doctor will be able to advise you on the most suitable painkiller for you to take.

You may also have some vaginal bleeding.

Use sanitary pads rather than tampons to reduce the risk of spreading infection into the vagina, and get medical advice if the bleeding is heavy.

Returning to your normal activities

Try to stay mobile and do gentle activities, such as going for a daily walk, while you're recovering to reduce the risk of blood clots. Be careful not to overexert yourself.

You should be able to hold and carry your baby once you get home.

But you may not be able to do some activities straight away, such as:

driving

exercising

carrying anything heavier than your baby

having sex

Only start to do these things again when you feel able to do so and do not find them uncomfortable. This may not be for 6 weeks or so.

Ask your midwife for advice if you're unsure when it's safe to start returning to your normal activities.

You can also ask a GP at your 6-week postnatal check.

When to get medical advice

Contact your midwife or a GP straight away if you have any of the following symptoms after a caesarean:

severe pain

leaking urine

pain when peeing

heavy vaginal bleeding

your wound becomes more red, painful and swollen

a discharge of pus or foul-smelling fluid from your wound

a cough or shortness of breath

swelling or pain in your lower leg

These symptoms may be the sign of an infection or blood clot, which should be treated as soon as possible.

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Find out about after a caesarean section, including what you can expect and how long you need to avoid activities such as driving.

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Help with the cost of living crisis | Manchester City Council

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Helping hands - advice on debt, bills and making your money go further

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GM Perinatal and Parent Infant Mental Health Services

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GM Perinatal and Parent Infant Mental Health Services

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Greater Manchester Perinatal and Parent Infant Mental Health Services

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Advice if you’re affected by the cost of living crisis

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Parental mental health - Your Baby and You

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Learning about your baby (part 2) - Your Baby and You

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Learning about your baby (part 1) - Your Baby and You

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Attachment and bonding - Your Baby and You

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A chance to get active & dance to awesome tunes, feel joy, connection and laughter, while holding your little one close. Yes, they even often fall asleep! (yes even those sleep stealers!)

Aimed at Mums (& Dads!) for some well deserved you time, to have fun and other lovely Parents in your area too. We are very much a community with the social aspect also being a big part of why Parents love us!

No dance experience needed...we are all about JOY (2 left feet are welcome!)

No fitness level required (suitable from 8 weeks corrected or 12 weeks c-section)

You don't need a carrier. All our Instructors are Born to Carry Peer Support trained and/or SlingaBaby Consultants and can fit you in one of ours or help you with yours, so you are both safe and comfy.

We are happy to have older siblings attend classes too for no extra cost.

We welcome everyone with their little one to our classes, Dads, Grans, Foster carers...everyone is welcome!

You can find our FULL FAQ's with everything you need HERE: Babywearing dance classes - Dance Like a Mother

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Dance Like a Mother - Parent & Baby Class

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Dance Like a Mother is the Award Winning Babywearing Dance class & Community for Parents and their little ones aged 8 weeks to 2 years. A chance for you to dance to some awesome tunes (2 left feet always welcome!) whilst bonding with your baby and meeting other lovely Parents in your area.

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Your body needs iron to make red blood cells for both you and your baby. If you are anaemic, or having twins, your doctor may also give you iron supplements.

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The truth about being physically active during pregnancy and as a new mum

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GMMH139 Perinatal and Early Pregnancy IAPT Service Leaflet Print Ready