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What Does a Postpartum Nurse Actually Do?

Writer: Alicia Robichaud
Alicia Robichaud
Jul 17
3 min read

When people hear the words "postpartum nurse," I often get the same response:

"I didn't even know that was a thing!"

And honestly? That's exactly why I started Georgian Bay Postpartum Nursing.

Every family spends months preparing for birth, but very few are prepared for what happens once they arrive home.


Those first few weeks are filled with questions.

"Is my baby eating enough?"

"Is this amount of crying normal?"

"Why am I feeling so emotional?"

"Am I healing the way I should be?"


The hospital discharge instructions are helpful, but they can't replace having someone beside you in your own home. That's where a postpartum nurse comes in.


What Is a Postpartum Nurse?


A postpartum nurse is a Registered Nurse who supports families during the weeks following birth. At Georgian Bay Postpartum Nursing, my role is to care for both you and your baby. Because postpartum isn't just about newborn care. It's about your recovery, your confidence, and your family's well-being.


During a Visit, We Might...


🤱 Breastfeeding & Feeding Support


Whether you're breastfeeding, pumping, formula feeding, or combination feeding, I'll help answer your questions and provide practical, evidence-based guidance.


Together, we can work through:

  • Latch concerns

  • Milk supply questions

  • Pumping support

  • Bottle feeding

  • Cluster feeding

  • Newborn hunger cues


Newborn Wellness

I'll assess how your baby is adjusting and provide guidance on:

  • Feeding

  • Sleep

  • Diaper output

  • Weight concerns

  • Jaundice awareness

  • Umbilical cord care

  • Normal newborn behaviour


Caring for Mom

One of the first questions I ask is:

"How are you doing?"

Because moms deserve care too.


We'll talk about:

  • Physical recovery

  • Pain management

  • Emotional well-being

  • Rest

  • Nutrition

  • Mental health

  • Adjusting to your new role


Reassurance

Sometimes you don't need another baby product. You need someone to say,

"Yes—that's normal." Or, "Let's take a closer look at that together."

Those moments of reassurance can make a world of difference.


Why Families Love In-Home Visits


There's something special about receiving care where you're most comfortable—at home.

Instead of packing up a newborn, worrying about diaper bags, or rushing to appointments, you can focus on what matters most: caring for yourself and your baby.


During an in-home postpartum nursing visit, I come to you. This allows me to see how feeding is going in your own environment, answer your questions as they arise, and provide personalized support that fits your family's routine.


Home visits offer the opportunity to:

  • Receive one-on-one, unrushed care

  • Get answers to your questions in real time

  • Learn practical newborn care in your own home

  • Build confidence with feeding, recovery, and daily routines

  • Feel supported without leaving the comfort of your home


Every family is different, and every postpartum journey is unique. My goal is to meet you where you are, both physically and emotionally, so you feel informed, supported, and confident as you navigate life with your new baby.


Alicia's RN Tip

One of the biggest myths about parenthood is that you're supposed to know what you're doing the moment your baby arrives. The truth? Parenting is learned—not instinctive. Every parent asks questions. Every baby is different. Even experienced parents can need reassurance with a new baby. Asking for help isn't a sign that you're failing—it's a sign that you're invested in giving your baby the best possible start. Sometimes, all it takes is one conversation to replace uncertainty with confidence.

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