As an expectant mother and newcomer to Hong Kong, the prospect of setting up home in a new city without the support of friends and family can be daunting and overwhelming! Here are three tips for new mothers from maternity nurse Melinda Hunt.
#1 Book your medical care early
Once your pregnancy is confirmed, book your obstetrician and hospital as soon as possible! (Definitely do your research and homework on this one, though.) Once you’re booked in, take a hospital tour so you can meet the midwives and get to know the This is the perfect time to book your prenatal classes (get in early as the classes tend to fill up quickly). Aim to book between 28 and 32 weeks, when you’re likely to be feeling human again! This will be a great opportunity to meet new people too who will be new mothers at the same time as you.
#2 Hire your helper
One of the fabulous perks about living in Hong Kong is the opportunity to hire a helper who can help new mothers with housework, childcare and cooking. Aim to interview your candidates well in advance of your due date. Be warned, paperwork can take anything from four to 12 weeks. Aim to have your helper start a month before you’re due so she can settle in and take any helper or newborn courses before baby arrives.
#3 Consider hiring a maternity nurse
A maternity nurse can teach you newborn care, offer breastfeeding support and provide night-time relief – a godsend for new mothers when you’re alone in a new city! As maternity nurses are in high demand, be sure to interview and book her as early as 12 weeks into your pregnancy for peace of mind.
5177 7240 | melindamaternity.com
This article appears in Expat Living’s annual City Guide. Get your FREE copy here!
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