Once you leave hospital with your new baby, you can arrange for a private midwife to visit you at home. Jenlia (03 7726 7002) offers this service. After the birth, your baby will be seen by a paediatrician while in hospital, and you will usually be given an appointment for a follow-up visit after six weeks before you leave the hospital. At this first check up the doctor will examine your baby, check for proper growth and any signs of problems. You should also have a check up after six weeks. You’ll be asked questions about your general health and perhaps about your emotional well-being, as well as being examined to make sure your body is returning to normal after the birth. Many doctors offer a pap smear test at this visit.

Breastfeeding support is available from Mamalink (www.mamalink.com). Attitudes towards breastfeeding are generally positive. It’s ok to feed discreetly in public, but probably not a good idea to let it all hang out! Ibu (www.ibufamily.org) offers a well baby clinic staffed by volunteer expat doctors and midwives, and a new baby group which is a great way to meet other new mums. Fit For 2 (www.fitfir2.com.my) has antenatal exercise classes that you can do with your baby.

Having a new baby can be hard work emotionally and physically and it can be extra hard if you’re away from family and friends. Many women encourage family visits around the time of the birth so that they have some extra support. Luckily, with household help being easily available you can concentrate on your new baby without having to worry about cooking dinner or getting the ironing done.