Abu Dhabi Launches New Postnatal Care for Mothers, Babies

Photo: Abu Dhabi Media Office 

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has taken an important step to improve the health and well-being of mothers and their newborn babies. As part of its wider plan to take better care of women and children, the DoH has introduced the Integrated Postnatal Care Programme. This new initiative is designed to give timely, quality, and easy-to-access support to mothers during the crucial time after childbirth.

Postnatal care is the health care given to a mother and her baby right after birth. It is one of the most important stages in a woman's life. Mothers often face emotional and physical challenges after delivering a baby. Many may not know what to expect or how to take care of themselves and their baby. The new program aims to fill that gap by offering continuous help and guidance from health experts.

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Why Postnatal Care Matters

The days and weeks after childbirth are very sensitive. New mothers may experience physical tiredness, emotional changes, or even health problems like infections, bleeding, or depression. Their babies also need constant care, feeding, and health monitoring. Without proper support during this time, both mother and baby can face serious problems.

His Excellency Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said, "The postpartum period is one of the most physically and emotionally challenging times in a woman’s life – and yet, one of the most overlooked."

She explained that this new program puts mothers and babies first. It gives them the kind of support that goes beyond hospital walls. It's not just a health service—it’s a promise that every mother and child will get the care they truly deserve.

What the Programme Offers

The Integrated Postnatal Care Programme is different from usual hospital services. It brings care to the mother wherever she is—whether that’s at home or through a video call with a doctor. Here's how it works:

1. Telemedicine Appointments

In the first few days after leaving the hospital, a mother will get a telemedicine session. This is a video or phone call with a healthcare professional. During this call, the nurse or doctor will ask the mother how she and her baby are doing. They can give answers to important questions, check for any signs of trouble, and give advice on feeding, sleep, or healing.

This early contact helps catch any health issues before they become serious. It also gives mothers peace of mind. They don’t have to travel to a hospital for every small question—they can get help from the comfort of their home.

2. Home Visits by Nurses or Midwives

For mothers who have had a difficult pregnancy, a complicated delivery, or who have babies that need special care, the program includes two home visits. A nurse or midwife will visit the mother at home:

• First visit: Within the first few days after she comes home from the hospital

• Second visit: Between 7 to 14 days after childbirth

During these visits, the nurse checks on the baby’s weight, feeding, and sleep patterns. The mother’s health is also closely monitored—her blood pressure, healing progress, and emotional state are all carefully checked.

If anything looks concerning, the nurse can take action quickly. These visits also help build trust between the mother and the healthcare team.

3. In-Person Appointments at Clinics or Hospitals

Apart from home visits and telemedicine, mothers can also go to their nearest clinic or hospital:

• First in-person check-up: Between 7 to 14 days after birth

• Second in-person check-up: At 6 weeks postpartum

These visits are important to ensure that the mother has healed properly and the baby is growing well. It also gives doctors a chance to provide vaccines, answer more questions, and talk about any next steps for the baby’s health.

A New Model of Continuous, Personalized Care

This new program offers continuous care, which means the mother and baby are never left alone without support. It's personalized, so each family gets care that fits their needs. Whether it’s a first-time mother with questions or a mother whose baby needs special attention, this program is designed to help everyone.

Benefits for Mothers and Babies

There are many advantages to this postnatal care program. Here are just a few:

• Early detection of possible problems like infections, breastfeeding difficulties, or emotional distress

• Less stress for mothers because they know someone is checking on them

• More confidence in taking care of their baby

• Better health outcomes for both mother and child

• Support for high-risk pregnancies and special-needs babies

Making Healthcare Easy to Reach

One of the best parts of the program is how easy it is to access care. You don’t have to wait in long lines or travel far. Whether it’s a call, a home visit, or a short trip to a nearby clinic, mothers can get help quickly and without worry.

This approach shows how Abu Dhabi is using modern tools like telemedicine and combining it with traditional care like home visits to make health services better and smarter.

A Model for the Future

Abu Dhabi is becoming known around the world for its high-quality and smart healthcare system. This new postnatal program is just one more step in showing how the city is serious about the health of its people. By focusing on mothers and babies, the Department of Health is showing true care for the most important stage of life—new beginnings.

This program is not just about checking boxes. It’s about giving every child a healthy start and supporting every mother as she begins her journey of parenthood.

Final Words from the Department of Health

Dr. Noura summed it up best when she said: "By integrating telemedicine, in-person follow-ups, and home-based care, we deliver proactive, personalised services that empower mothers and give every child a healthier start."

The Integrated Postnatal Care Programme is a thoughtful and well-planned step by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi. It shows how important the health and happiness of mothers and babies are to the future of the community. With smart tools, kind care, and trusted health workers, Abu Dhabi is leading the way in making sure no mother feels alone and every baby gets the best possible start in life.

This program is a gift of care, comfort, and hope—for today and for generations to come.