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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a maternity nurse?

A maternity nurse is a specialist postnatal care giver, who is able to offer support and guidance to new parents in their own home Experienced maternity nurses have relevant qualifications, skills and experience in caring for newborn babies. Some maternity nurses may have originated from a medical background, such as a midwife or paediatric nurse. Other maternity nurses may have an educational background, such as a nursery nurse teacher. Alternatively maternity nurses may have been an experienced nanny, who have undertaken additional training courses, such as a maternity nurse course.

 

What is the role of a maternity nurse?

A maternity nurse helps new mothers in all aspects of caring for their newborn babies, some of those duties can include:

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  • Maternity nurses can provide a routine to ensure that your baby is effectively feeding and sleeping​

  • Provide information and guidance with infant feeding (whether breast, formula or mixed feeding)​

  • Practical help with care of your baby (feeding, winding, nappy changing, bathing, dressing/ undressing, settling to sleep​

  • Accompanying mums to appointments (hospital, GP, baby activities etc.)​

  • Responsible for nursery duties (baby's laundry, sterilising bottles and equipment, keeping nursery clean and tidy)​

  • Helping to involve siblings with your new baby​

  • Listening and encouragement for both parents with respect to the care of their new baby

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Why choose Maternity Mum?

Maternity Mum is the winner of the UK Enterprise Awards. Cheryl is a qualified midwife and experienced maternity nurses who has worked with babies for over 20 years. One of the most important values which we adhere to, is that each client is unique and no situation is the same. Parents have different styles of parenting and different routine. There are also health issues that need to be taken into consideration, such as postnatal depression etc. It is key that we provide the best possible service to every single one of our clients. Client satisfaction is something that is massively important to us and the endless positive testimonials both on our website and on Facebook are proof that the service that we offer is an excellent one. In addition to the references and recommendations from Cheryl's clients.

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How long shall I book a maternity nurse for?

The length of bookings differs depending on your personal circumstances. Some parents may choose a welcome home package. Hiring a maternity nurse for a few days to one week to help settle the baby into family life at home. Other parents request a long term maternity nurse to cover up to 6 months. If you would like your baby to have a good feeding and sleeping routine, book a maternity nurse for 6 to 12 weeks.

 

Difference between a Maternity Nurse and Posnatal Doula?
A maternity nurse is a skilled postnatal practitioner, who is there primarily to take care of the baby. She will be responsible for all of your baby's cares and anything relating to the baby. Including establishing a feeding and sleeping routine and helping Mum with breastfeeding and any issues relating to the baby. A maternity nurse can work in both shared care and solo positions.
A postnatal doula will focus on supporting and empowering new mothers. They may help around the family home, entertain older children or help new mums in other ways. Basically they will mother the mother and make sure that new mums are well fed and hydrated.  

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Can I book a Maternity Nurse to travel with us?

Yes I often travel with families overseas for work trips or family vacations. There are many benefits to booking a travel maternity nurse including:

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  • Reassurance to parents that your baby will be cared for by a qualified professional maternity nurse.

  • A helping hand, from the maternity nurse with travel to and from your destination.

  • Allow parents to have a holiday to rest and spend quality time together.

  • Reliable childcare for work/business commitments.

  • Babysitting service to allow parents to enjoy an evening meal.

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When is the best time to book a maternity nurse?

It is always best to book your maternity nurse as soon as you possibly can. Often I am booked many months in advance. However if your baby is already born, please get in touch as there may still be availability or a cancellation.

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What type of maternity nurse services can you provide?

In other words, there is truly no area of maternity nurse care that we cannot help you with. Cheryl also offers consultancy services, both online and offline, for any issues regarding breastfeeding, sleep training and trouble shooting

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Does a maternity nurse need an enhanced DBS?

Yes. I have an enhanced DBS. The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) was established in 2012 and carries out the functions previously undertaken by the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB). 

 

What if my baby arrives after my booking contract is due to start?

Maternity nurses charge 50% of their hourly, day or weekly fees as a retainer for the waiting time. So as a general rule of thumb I advise parents to maybe book a maternity nurse one week after the EDD. Often partners are on paternity leave and family members visit in the first few days. Many parents appreciate that quality family time together, before the maternity nurse joins the family.

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What if I cancel my booking prior to the start of the contract?

If you cancel your booking prior to the start of your booking contract, the maternity nurse will retain her non-refundable deposit. (Except in extenuating circumstances)

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What if I want to extend my contract with a maternity nurse?

If you want to extend the booking, please let me know asap and if availability allows that can be arranged.

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What if I want to terminate my contract earlier?

If you choose to terminate the contract early 50% of the remaining contract will be paid directly to the maternity nurse.

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How do I pay the maternity nurse fees?

Payment is made weekly by bank transfer, directly to the maternity nurse.

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Do maternity nurses work over the weekend?

Some maternity nurses may prefer not to work weekends, however I am able to work over the weekends if needed.

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Do maternity nurses work over Christmas and Bank Holidays? 

I generally do not work over the Christmas holidays, however I am able to help you find a relief maternity nurse if required. Bank holidays are 1.5x normal rates. 

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Can a maternity nurse advise me on topics such as which products to buy?

Yes I have been working with babies for over 20 years and I will be able to advise you on the advantages of many products and services available.

 

Can a maternity nurse me help me organise the nursery?

Yes I am an experienced maternity nurse who is able to help organise the nursery, from the best positioning of the changing station and cot, to ensuring that all the nursery furniture is best placed for safety and practicality.

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