WHILE private medical practices and obstetricians habitually recommend ante-natal classes to expectant mothers, post-birth care has been largely overlooked, with the exception of special private midwife visits, which are an expensive option.
Unlike the health visitor service provided as a medical benefit in Britain, women in Hong Kong - unless they have an established family network to call upon for help - can often feel isolated and anxious in the first few months after giving birth. Most commonly, new mothers can be unsure if they are looking after their babies properly.
Now two organisations have chosen to recognise the importance of post-natal care in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Family Welfare Society and an English-speaking parents support group, First Steps, have separately decided to help new mothers adjust to their role.
According to a spokesman for the Hong Kong Family Welfare Society, a new group for new mothers and babies is now being planned. Regular Chinese-language meetings will provide a forum for mothers to ask questions about baby-care, but more importantly will encourage women to share their anxieties with others in a similar position.
'We will be inviting professionals and nursing staff to give talks and share information about how to take care of the new baby. It will also provide a means of emotional support for these women,' said the spokesman.
The society is now recruiting members, and hopes to begin the group later in the year.
