Maternal and child health visit 1: Newborn (home visit)

After your baby is born and you're discharged from the hospital, our qualified maternal and child health (MCH) nurse will contact you to arrange a home visit.

The home visit is your first of 10 free MCH appointments with your baby, from birth to 3.5 years.

You may hear these referred to as the 10 'key age and stage' appointments. These match 10 key stages in your baby's development.

24-hour MCH line: Call 13 22 29 to talk with a qualified MCH nurse. In an emergency, call triple zero (000). More on who to call in a crisis.

What happens at my first home visit?

All family members are welcome at MCH appointments. 

At your first visit, your family and your maternal and child health (MCH) nurse will:

  • Talk about how you're feeling. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
  • Discuss what to expect from this service, including consent and privacy.
  • Start recording information in your 'green book'.
  • Weigh your baby and do a physical check. We'll will bring scales.
  • Learn about safe sleeping. Our nurse will check your baby's sleep area and answer any questions.
  • Find out where to find more information, like the MCH app and your green book.
  • Book in for your 2-week appointment at your nearest MCH centre – please bring your green book and nappy bag!

Please note there is no video recording or photography at MCH appointments.

More information: Maternal and child health - visit 1 - first visit at home

Council support for parents

More links and support

Your MCH nurse may share some of these evidence-based resources and support services during your appointment. 

You'll also find more resources in your green book. 

MCH line (13 22 29) 

A 24-hour maternal and child health (MCH) phone line where you can talk to a qualified maternal and child health nurse about any concerns. 

MCH app

Download it onto your phone from the Victorian Government's website.

Resources for looking after your baby

Raising Children Network: sleep, feeding, crying, tummy time, more

Better Health Channel: nutrition, reflux, rash, health conditions, immunisations, more

Royal Children's Hospital: health and safety, fever, crying, skincare, more

Red Nose: safe sleep, room temperature, wrapping, swaddling

Kids Safe Victoria: safe sleep, car seats, product safety, water safety, more

 

Resources for looking after yourself

Royal Women's Hospital: breastfeeding, pelvic floor, bonding

National Continence Helpline

One in three women who ever had a baby wet themselves

Australian Breastfeeding Association: first week, feeding patterns, attachment, sleep

Raising Children Network: wellbeing, mental health and depression

Better Health Channel: relationships and partners

Parenthood and your relationship

SMS4Dads: support for fathers and father figures

 

Do you see a broken link in our resources? Let us know by filling out the 'Was this page helpful' feedback form. 

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