Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Susan Cudlipp]

I agree with Nicole here. Many new parents do feel 
uncomfortable handling new babies at first and we offer to help them, or do 
whatever they wish, or leave them to it if they are happy.  We usually all 
follow the same routine (head and hair first) for the sake of continuity, but I 
always stress that the only really important aspects are warmth and safety, and 
that they should all enjoy the experience.
As for policies, our practice is to wait for the 
babies to have stabilised temperature - i.e. not in a hurry to wash them. We 
check 3 temps first at roughly hourly intervals.  Depending on the time of 
day and how they are feeling, some parents wish to leave the first bath until 
the next day when family/siblings might be able to be part of it.  Somehow 
"The Baby's First Bath" always seems to be an important occasion, and many 
parents opt to watch and take photos instead - I remember doing this myself with 
my 3rd child.
Sue

  - Original Message - 
  From: 
  Nicole Hmelnitsky 
  To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au 
  
  Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2005 6:55 
  PM
  Subject: RE: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
  bath
  I agree. I think that the benefit of educating a couple 
  on bathing their baby isactually just helping them feel comfortable with 
  holding their baby,rather than the "bath technique" head first etc etc, 
  because they reallydon't need much washing. Another benefit is  
  advising that a bath ishelpful as a relaxation tool. Nicole 
  H-Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED][mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] 
  On Behalf Of PaulineSent: Thursday, 3 March 2005 21:20To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.auSubject: 
  Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath When i first went back to work 5 
  years ago i got in trouble for showinga woman the wrong way to bath 
  her baby. Instead of wrapping the baby and washing his face and hair, 
  soaping him up then putting him in the bath,i (heaven forbid) put him 
  straight in the bath.  This was much to thehorror of the midwife 
  i was working with who had been working in the same unitfor over 20 
  years.Cheers Pauline --This mailing list is sponsored by ACE 
  Graphics.Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to 
  subscribe or unsubscribe.--This mailing list is sponsored by ACE 
  Graphics.Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to 
  subscribe or unsubscribe.-- Internal Virus Database is 
  out-of-date.Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.Version: 7.0.289 / Virus 
  Database: 265.0.0 - Release Date: 8/11/04
Internal Virus Database is out-of-date.
Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
Version: 7.0.289 / Virus Database: 265.0.0 - Release Date: 8/11/04

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Kate &/or Nick]

>>" 
you need to tell that woman that her baby will die if it is not delivered 
on the bed".  
 
She sounds like she'd fit in nicely with one of our 
students who actually commented that the sterile drapes available are wonderful 
because they "contain the mess". She was most unimpressed by my observation that 
so will a towel or blanket or sheet thrown on the floor!
 
Kate 2nd year BMid

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Kate &/or Nick]

I'm with you Tania.
 
My first wasn't bathed for 3 days. It was 
done when we were ready. I found that really lovely. She was clean and didn't 
need bathing. My second - different - hospital - was bathed within 30 mins of 
birth (as have been several I've seen), which I found really sad. I couldn't see 
that she NEEDED a bath. 
 
Kate

  - Original Message - 
  From: 
  Tania Smallwood 
  
  To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au 
  
  Sent: Friday, March 04, 2005 5:05 
PM
  Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
  bath
  
  This has been a really interesting discussion, and it's 
  prompted me to think about the kinds of information we give to women, and when 
  we start to assume the role of educator, overseer, teacher, one of authority, 
  or whether we maintain the role of facilitator, and how that has an effect on 
  women's confidence with early parenting.  Interestingly in 
  independent practice, I have no recollection of either showing women how to 
  bath their baby, or of women asking me to show them.  I wonder if this 
  is to do with the relationship, or with the implied inference that the 
  women will take on that task, or responsibility themselves, or if it is 
  just because I'm not normally there when they decide to bath their baby for 
  the first time.  I don't know, and I mean no disrespect with 
  this post, just random thoughts.
   
  I suppose the first bath is something we see as innocuous, 
  educational, a chance to give information, and yet, maybe it's an 
  opportunity to stand by and just give lots of positive reinforcement about 
  how sensible the parents are, and how they don't need us to show them how 
  to bath/change/feed their baby, but to know that we're around for support 
  if they need it.  I think I'd be mortified if someone implied I 
  couldn't bath my own baby - what else might I not have the 
  resources/ability/confidence to do??!!!  (of course, different 
  if the woman has had a difficult birth...)
   
  Sorry for the ramble, just wanted to add...
   
  Tania
  x 
  
- Original Message - 
From: 
Barry 
& Sonja 
To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au 

    Sent: Friday, March 04, 2005 5:39 
PM
Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
bath

I work in an area with policies on how to 
conduct a normal birth.  Even an inservice coming up on "How to conduct 
a normal delivery!"   This is hysterical, admittedly I will not be 
attending.  To make it even better the "midwife" conducting the 
inservice believes that any babies born not on the bed will die  
Her exact words were " you need to tell that woman that her baby will die if 
it is not delivered on the bed".  If I hadn't been so shocked I 
would have said something along the lines of mothers birth their babies and 
midwives assist them, no babies are delivered.  All the storks that 
used to deliver babies seem to have moved on to something 
else.
Sonja 
 
-- Original Message - 

  From: 
  Jenny 
  Cameron 
  To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au 
  
  Sent: Friday, March 04, 2005 12:08 
  PM
  Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
  bath
  
  Re NB Bathing.
   
  For midwives we need to bear in mind the baby 
  is covered in body fluids until after a bath. It is recommended that we 
  observe universal precautions unitil after the baby is 
bathed.
   
  For parents. Safety first. Some parents do 
  like a 'step through'. It is good to ask first. Hospitals are intimidating 
  and I have had mothers of 4 children ask me for a bath dem. What have we 
  (society) done to these women? It is that general fear of 'doing it 
  wrong', particularly in unfamiliar circumstances and on someone elses 
  turf. I like emphasise that as long as it is safe there are no rules and 
  regulations. 
   
  Sometimes I think we have too many policies 
  and procedures. Some hospitals have policies or guidelines on how to 
  manage a normal birth. Come on, midwives are educated. Same for the 
  general public, they know how to wash themselves and  ten year olds 
  can bath younger sibs. It is all about attitude.
   
  Jenny
  Jennifer Cameron FRCNA FACMProMid Professional Midwifery 
  Education  Service0419 528 717
  
- Original Message - 
From: 
Alesa Koziol 
To: ozmidwifery 
Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2005 3:52 
PM
Subject: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
bath

Dear List
Updating policies at our workplace and 
seeking any written policies that can be shared on bathing newborns. I 
doubt if there is any but if anyone is aware of any written papers on 
  

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Denise Hynd]

I think the fact that 
the baby is covered in body fluids until after a 
bath. 
Should mean that 
It is recommended that we encourage the mother only 
to handle  her baby .
Denise Hynd
 
"Let us support one another, not just in philosophy but in action, for the 
sake of freedom for all women to choose exactly how and by whom, if by anyone, 
our bodies will be handled."
 
— Linda Hes

  - Original Message - 
  From: 
  Jenny 
  Cameron 
  To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au 
  
  Sent: Friday, March 04, 2005 9:08 
AM
  Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
  bath
  
  Re NB Bathing.
   
  For midwives we need to bear in mind the baby is 
  covered in body fluids until after a bath. It is recommended that we observe 
  universal precautions unitil after the baby is bathed.
   
  For parents. Safety first. Some parents do like a 
  'step through'. It is good to ask first. Hospitals are intimidating and I have 
  had mothers of 4 children ask me for a bath dem. What have we (society) done 
  to these women? It is that general fear of 'doing it wrong', particularly in 
  unfamiliar circumstances and on someone elses turf. I like emphasise that as 
  long as it is safe there are no rules and regulations. 
   
  Sometimes I think we have too many policies and 
  procedures. Some hospitals have policies or guidelines on how to manage a 
  normal birth. Come on, midwives are educated. Same for the general public, 
  they know how to wash themselves and  ten year olds can bath younger 
  sibs. It is all about attitude.
   
  Jenny
  Jennifer Cameron FRCNA FACMProMid Professional Midwifery 
  Education  Service0419 528 717
  
- Original Message - 
From: 
Alesa 
Koziol 
To: ozmidwifery 
Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2005 3:52 
PM
Subject: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
bath

Dear List
Updating policies at our workplace and seeking 
any written policies that can be shared on bathing newborns. I doubt if 
there is any but if anyone is aware of any written papers on this topic this 
would also be gratefully received
Cheers
Alesa
 
Alesa KoziolClinical Midwifery 
EducatorMelbourne

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Tania Smallwood]

This has been a really interesting discussion, and it's 
prompted me to think about the kinds of information we give to women, and when 
we start to assume the role of educator, overseer, teacher, one of authority, or 
whether we maintain the role of facilitator, and how that has an effect on 
women's confidence with early parenting.  Interestingly in independent 
practice, I have no recollection of either showing women how to bath their baby, 
or of women asking me to show them.  I wonder if this is to do with 
the relationship, or with the implied inference that the women will take on that 
task, or responsibility themselves, or if it is just because I'm not 
normally there when they decide to bath their baby for the first time.  I 
don't know, and I mean no disrespect with this post, just random 
thoughts.
 
I suppose the first bath is something we see as innocuous, 
educational, a chance to give information, and yet, maybe it's an 
opportunity to stand by and just give lots of positive reinforcement about 
how sensible the parents are, and how they don't need us to show them how 
to bath/change/feed their baby, but to know that we're around for support 
if they need it.  I think I'd be mortified if someone implied I 
couldn't bath my own baby - what else might I not have the 
resources/ability/confidence to do??!!!  (of course, different if the 
woman has had a difficult birth...)
 
Sorry for the ramble, just wanted to add...
 
Tania
x 

  - Original Message - 
  From: 
  Barry & 
  Sonja 
  To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au 
  
  Sent: Friday, March 04, 2005 5:39 
PM
  Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
  bath
  
  I work in an area with policies on how to conduct 
  a normal birth.  Even an inservice coming up on "How to conduct a normal 
  delivery!"   This is hysterical, admittedly I will not be 
  attending.  To make it even better the "midwife" conducting the inservice 
  believes that any babies born not on the bed will die  Her exact 
  words were " you need to tell that woman that her baby will die if it is 
  not delivered on the bed".  If I hadn't been so shocked I would have 
  said something along the lines of mothers birth their babies and midwives 
  assist them, no babies are delivered.  All the storks that used to 
  deliver babies seem to have moved on to something else.
  Sonja 
   
  -- Original Message - 
  
From: 
Jenny 
Cameron 
To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au 

    Sent: Friday, March 04, 2005 12:08 
PM
Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
bath

Re NB Bathing.
 
For midwives we need to bear in mind the baby 
is covered in body fluids until after a bath. It is recommended that we 
observe universal precautions unitil after the baby is bathed.
 
For parents. Safety first. Some parents do like 
a 'step through'. It is good to ask first. Hospitals are intimidating and I 
have had mothers of 4 children ask me for a bath dem. What have we (society) 
done to these women? It is that general fear of 'doing it wrong', 
particularly in unfamiliar circumstances and on someone elses turf. I like 
emphasise that as long as it is safe there are no rules and regulations. 

 
Sometimes I think we have too many policies and 
procedures. Some hospitals have policies or guidelines on how to manage a 
normal birth. Come on, midwives are educated. Same for the general public, 
they know how to wash themselves and  ten year olds can bath younger 
sibs. It is all about attitude.
 
Jenny
Jennifer Cameron FRCNA FACMProMid Professional Midwifery 
Education  Service0419 528 717

  - Original Message - 
  From: 
  Alesa 
  Koziol 
  To: ozmidwifery 
  Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2005 3:52 
  PM
  Subject: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
  bath
  
  Dear List
  Updating policies at our workplace and 
  seeking any written policies that can be shared on bathing newborns. I 
  doubt if there is any but if anyone is aware of any written papers on this 
  topic this would also be gratefully received
  Cheers
  Alesa
   
  Alesa KoziolClinical Midwifery 
  EducatorMelbourne

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Denise Hynd]

Megan  said
Babies smell just beautiful all on their own, the "Johnson and Johnson" 
smell just gets in the way of this, not to mention the sensitivity these 
tiny new darlings are dealing with.
Providing women with an option and explaining that not bathing their baby 
all the time is perfectly fine too.
and,

In fact bathing mother and bay after birth interferes with the babies sense 
of itself and its mother

Smell is very important aid to babies seeking and attaching well to the 
breast.
Also disturbing it and other connections to its mother   probably impairs 
their ability to gradually and gently re-orientate themselves to 
extra-uterine life- something which is even more important after our common 
practices of untimely artificially induced and augmented labours followed by 
traumatic deliveries rather than the naturally intended birth led expereince 
mediated by loving hormones, movements, lights and sounds !!

Any wonder that mothers and babies at home look and behave like they are 
from another planet when compared to those who had medical deliveries in our 
production line obstetric units!!

Denise Hynd
"Let us support one another, not just in philosophy but in action, for the 
sake of freedom for all women to choose exactly how and by whom, if by 
anyone, our bodies will be handled."

- Linda Hes
- Original Message - 
From: "Sylvia Boutsalis" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: 
Sent: Friday, March 04, 2005 6:37 AM
Subject: RE: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath


FYI
There is a clinic 'Ita Wegman Klinic' in Switzerland that actually
follows the philosophy of not bathing newborns at all.   When I asked
further questions about their logic of not bathing they got a bit cagey,
thinking I would then write in my questionaire that they were a bit
strange!!  I wish she had told me, because I was truly facinated.
Sylvia Boutsalis
Childbirth Educator
Infant Massage Instructor
Adelaide
-Original Message-
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: Thursday, 3 March 2005 8:10 PM
To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au
Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath
I have to agree there.
My memories of my husband and I being "taught" how to bath our first
child (6 yrs ago) are embarassing. I hadn't ever bathed a baby before,
but to be told that today we will take you down and teach you how, it
clearly was a messge that we weren't capable. Then the instructions on
doing the head first, blah, blah, blah. My poor deprived fourth child,
if it wasn't for the school and kindy "show and tell" bathing a baby
sessions, he wouldn't have known what baths were.
I know I'm being highly critical here, and I realise some parents will
want to be shown, but really??? I also have a problem with the idea that
these babies have to be bathed at all. Babies smell just beautiful all
on their own, the "Johnson and Johnson" smell just gets in the way of
this, not to mention the sensitivity these tiny new darlings are dealing
with. Providing women with an option and explaining that not bathing
their baby all the time is perfectly fine too.
and, Yes, I know that water emmersion is lovely and relaxing, but thats
not about washing them.
anyway, my two bits worth,
cheers
Megan



From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Denise Hynd
Sent: Thursday, 3 March 2005 7:33 PM
To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au
Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath
I find the whole idea of teaching an adult woman HOW to bath the most
cherished person in her life a reflection of our patriachial attitude
and approach to women, birth parenting. and another step along
the path to disempowered parenting or re-enforcing the need for outside
experts in deciding how respond to your child
Perhaps supporting a woman to bath her child as she can  in her home in
her way is a little more respectful?

Denise Hynd
"Let us support one another, not just in philosophy but in action, for
the sake of freedom for all women to choose exactly how and by whom, if
by anyone, our bodies will be handled."
- Linda Hes
This message was sent through MyMail http://www.mymail.com.au
--
This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.
--
This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.

--
This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Barry & Sonja]

I work in an area with policies on how to conduct a 
normal birth.  Even an inservice coming up on "How to conduct a normal 
delivery!"   This is hysterical, admittedly I will not be 
attending.  To make it even better the "midwife" conducting the inservice 
believes that any babies born not on the bed will die  Her exact words 
were " you need to tell that woman that her baby will die if it is 
not delivered on the bed".  If I hadn't been so shocked I would have 
said something along the lines of mothers birth their babies and midwives assist 
them, no babies are delivered.  All the storks that used to deliver 
babies seem to have moved on to something else.
Sonja 
 
-- Original Message - 

  From: 
  Jenny 
  Cameron 
  To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au 
  
  Sent: Friday, March 04, 2005 12:08 
  PM
  Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
  bath
  
  Re NB Bathing.
   
  For midwives we need to bear in mind the baby is 
  covered in body fluids until after a bath. It is recommended that we observe 
  universal precautions unitil after the baby is bathed.
   
  For parents. Safety first. Some parents do like a 
  'step through'. It is good to ask first. Hospitals are intimidating and I have 
  had mothers of 4 children ask me for a bath dem. What have we (society) done 
  to these women? It is that general fear of 'doing it wrong', particularly in 
  unfamiliar circumstances and on someone elses turf. I like emphasise that as 
  long as it is safe there are no rules and regulations. 
   
  Sometimes I think we have too many policies and 
  procedures. Some hospitals have policies or guidelines on how to manage a 
  normal birth. Come on, midwives are educated. Same for the general public, 
  they know how to wash themselves and  ten year olds can bath younger 
  sibs. It is all about attitude.
   
  Jenny
  Jennifer Cameron FRCNA FACMProMid Professional Midwifery 
  Education  Service0419 528 717
  
- Original Message - 
From: 
Alesa 
Koziol 
To: ozmidwifery 
Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2005 3:52 
PM
Subject: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
bath

Dear List
Updating policies at our workplace and seeking 
any written policies that can be shared on bathing newborns. I doubt if 
there is any but if anyone is aware of any written papers on this topic this 
would also be gratefully received
Cheers
Alesa
 
Alesa KoziolClinical Midwifery 
EducatorMelbourne

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Jenny Cameron]

Re NB Bathing.
 
For midwives we need to bear in mind the baby is 
covered in body fluids until after a bath. It is recommended that we observe 
universal precautions unitil after the baby is bathed.
 
For parents. Safety first. Some parents do like a 
'step through'. It is good to ask first. Hospitals are intimidating and I have 
had mothers of 4 children ask me for a bath dem. What have we (society) done to 
these women? It is that general fear of 'doing it wrong', particularly in 
unfamiliar circumstances and on someone elses turf. I like emphasise that as 
long as it is safe there are no rules and regulations. 
 
Sometimes I think we have too many policies and 
procedures. Some hospitals have policies or guidelines on how to manage a normal 
birth. Come on, midwives are educated. Same for the general public, they know 
how to wash themselves and  ten year olds can bath younger sibs. It is all 
about attitude.
 
Jenny
Jennifer Cameron FRCNA FACMProMid Professional Midwifery 
Education  Service0419 528 717

  - Original Message - 
  From: 
  Alesa 
  Koziol 
  To: ozmidwifery 
  Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2005 3:52 
  PM
  Subject: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath
  
  Dear List
  Updating policies at our workplace and seeking 
  any written policies that can be shared on bathing newborns. I doubt if there 
  is any but if anyone is aware of any written papers on this topic this would 
  also be gratefully received
  Cheers
  Alesa
   
  Alesa KoziolClinical Midwifery 
  EducatorMelbourne

RE: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Sylvia Boutsalis]

FYI
There is a clinic 'Ita Wegman Klinic' in Switzerland that actually
follows the philosophy of not bathing newborns at all.   When I asked
further questions about their logic of not bathing they got a bit cagey,
thinking I would then write in my questionaire that they were a bit
strange!!  I wish she had told me, because I was truly facinated.

Sylvia Boutsalis
Childbirth Educator
Infant Massage Instructor
Adelaide

-Original Message-
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: Thursday, 3 March 2005 8:10 PM
To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au
Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath


I have to agree there. 
My memories of my husband and I being "taught" how to bath our first
child (6 yrs ago) are embarassing. I hadn't ever bathed a baby before,
but to be told that today we will take you down and teach you how, it
clearly was a messge that we weren't capable. Then the instructions on
doing the head first, blah, blah, blah. My poor deprived fourth child,
if it wasn't for the school and kindy "show and tell" bathing a baby
sessions, he wouldn't have known what baths were.

I know I'm being highly critical here, and I realise some parents will
want to be shown, but really??? I also have a problem with the idea that
these babies have to be bathed at all. Babies smell just beautiful all
on their own, the "Johnson and Johnson" smell just gets in the way of
this, not to mention the sensitivity these tiny new darlings are dealing
with. Providing women with an option and explaining that not bathing
their baby all the time is perfectly fine too. 
and, Yes, I know that water emmersion is lovely and relaxing, but thats
not about washing them.

anyway, my two bits worth,
cheers
Megan






From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Denise Hynd
Sent: Thursday, 3 March 2005 7:33 PM
To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au
Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath


I find the whole idea of teaching an adult woman HOW to bath the most
cherished person in her life a reflection of our patriachial attitude
and approach to women, birth parenting. and another step along
the path to disempowered parenting or re-enforcing the need for outside
experts in deciding how respond to your child 

Perhaps supporting a woman to bath her child as she can  in her home in
her way is a little more respectful?



Denise Hynd

"Let us support one another, not just in philosophy but in action, for
the sake of freedom for all women to choose exactly how and by whom, if
by anyone, our bodies will be handled."

- Linda Hes


This message was sent through MyMail http://www.mymail.com.au


--
This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.


--
This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.

RE: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Maternity Ward Mareeba Hospital]

I agree with you Nicole. I usually say something like "there 
is only two criteria for a successful bath, 1. baby ends up clean  2. baby 
not drowned. Having bathed my babies in the past in the shower, under the hose 
etc usually gets mentioned. 
I focus on giving them confidence in holding the baby etc. 

Cheers
Judy>>> [EMAIL PROTECTED] 
03/03/05 08:55pm >>>I agree. I think that the benefit of 
educating a couple on bathing their baby isactually just helping them feel 
comfortable with holding their baby,rather than the "bath technique" head 
first etc etc, because they reallydon't need much washing. Another benefit 
is  advising that a bath ishelpful as a relaxation tool. Nicole 
H-Original Message-From: 
[EMAIL PROTECTED][mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] 
On Behalf Of PaulineSent: Thursday, 3 March 2005 21:20To: 
ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.auSubject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn 
bathWhen i first went back to work 5 years ago i got in trouble for showinga woman the wrong way to bath her baby. Instead of wrapping the 
baby and washing his face and hair, soaping him up then putting him in the 
bath,i (heaven forbid) put him straight in the bath.  This was much 
to thehorror of the midwife i was working with who had been working in 
the same unitfor over 20 years.Cheers Pauline --This mailing 
list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.Visit  to 
subscribe or unsubscribe.--This mailing list is sponsored by ACE 
Graphics.Visit  to 
subscribe or unsubscribe.

***
This email, including any attachments sent with it, is confidential and for the sole use of the intended recipient(s).  This confidentiality is not waived or lost, if you receive it and you are not the intended recipient(s), or if it is transmitted/received in error.

Any unauthorised use, alteration, disclosure, distribution or review of this email is prohibited.  It may be subject to a statutory duty of confidentiality if it relates to health service matters.

If you are not the intended recipient(s), or if you have received this email in error, you are asked to immediately notify the sender by telephone or by return email.  You should also delete this email and destroy any hard copies produced.
***

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Marilyn Kleidon]

I totally agree with you Megan and Denise. For most of us up here (Cairns)
"teaching" the parents how to bath their baby is showing them that water
immersion is actually OK and they take it from there. Of course there are
the safety messages about hot water and not leaving baby alone in the bath
etc.. Babies do get bathed a lot up here especially in summer when the
humidity is so high and so a lot of time is spent on keeping baby cool
discussions. It is pleasing to see on home visits that mum and dad are
taking baby into the shower or bath with them. I remain surprised at how
much fear there is around babies and water, so my main message is
reassurance. Of course I love water myself.

marilyn
- Original Message - 
From: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: 
Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2005 1:39 AM
Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath


> I have to agree there.
> My memories of my husband and I being "taught" how to bath our first child
(6 yrs ago) are embarassing. I hadn't ever bathed a baby before, but to be
told that today we will take you down and teach you how, it clearly was a
messge that we weren't capable. Then the instructions on doing the head
first, blah, blah, blah. My poor deprived fourth child, if it wasn't for the
school and kindy "show and tell" bathing a baby sessions, he wouldn't have
known what baths were.
>
> I know I'm being highly critical here, and I realise some parents will
want to be shown, but really???
> I also have a problem with the idea that these babies have to be bathed at
all. Babies smell just beautiful all on their own, the "Johnson and Johnson"
smell just gets in the way of this, not to mention the sensitivity these
tiny new darlings are dealing with.
> Providing women with an option and explaining that not bathing their baby
all the time is perfectly fine too.
> and, Yes, I know that water emmersion is lovely and relaxing, but thats
not about washing them.
>
> anyway, my two bits worth,
> cheers
> Megan
>
>
>
>
> --
--
> From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Denise Hynd
> Sent: Thursday, 3 March 2005 7:33 PM
> To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au
> Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath
>
>
> I find the whole idea of teaching an adult woman HOW to bath the most
cherished person in her life a reflection of our patriachial attitude and
approach to women, birth parenting. and another step along the path
to disempowered parenting or re-enforcing the need for outside experts in
deciding how respond to your child
>
> Perhaps supporting a woman to bath her child as she can  in her home in
her way is a little more respectful?
>
>
>
> Denise Hynd
>
> "Let us support one another, not just in philosophy but in action, for the
sake of freedom for all women to choose exactly how and by whom, if by
anyone, our bodies will be handled."
>
> - Linda Hes
>
>
> This message was sent through MyMail http://www.mymail.com.au
>
>
> --
> This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
> Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.
>


--
This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[JoFromOz]

Our only 'rules' are that a baby must have 3 consecutive temps above 
36.5 before a bath... on the other hand, what do you do on a cold night 
when you can't get warm in bed?  Jump in a hot shower.  We had a baby 
who couldn't get a temp above 36 with skin to skin, or under the heater, 
so a 'daring' midwife gave her a nice warm bath, and wow, you know, the 
baby had no more temp problems ;)

We are required to offer a demo bath, or a supervised one for first 
timers, and there isn't that often when they say no.  I always ask if 
they want to do it and I can talk them through, but mostly they want to 
watch the first one being done.  I don't put J&J stuff in the bath 
unless they request it.  I let them know that they don't need to use 
anything on their skin, etc.  Sometimes even 4th time mothers want to 
watch the first bath - they just don't have the self confidence sometimes. 

Jo (RM)
--
This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
Visit  to subscribe or unsubscribe.

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Philippa Scott]

I realise that this is not what you where asking for but I mentioned to our
group today that when thinking about their baby plan & the bathing
"policies" that they could choose if they wanted to, to shower with the baby
& maybe even partner. For me this was a wonderful experience. I was able to
clean myself & my baby with out being separated. We had just spent 6 hrs
sleeping & feeding skin to skin since the birth & I didn't want to let her
go to anyone but her family. She didn't see a bath for 4 weeks or so. Anyway
I just wanted to share as it was a very different experience for me than
watching my husband learn to bath our first daughter from my bed recovering
from a c/s. If I had known then that it was ok to not bath her then I could
have had a similar experience with my first.
Cheers
Philippa Scott
Birth Buddies
Supporting Women ~ Creating Life


--
This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
Visit  to subscribe or unsubscribe.

RE: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Nicole Hmelnitsky]

I agree. 

I think that the benefit of educating a couple on bathing their baby is
actually just helping them feel comfortable with holding their baby,
rather than the "bath technique" head first etc etc, because they really
don't need much washing. Another benefit is  advising that a bath is
helpful as a relaxation tool. 

Nicole H


-Original Message-
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Pauline
Sent: Thursday, 3 March 2005 21:20
To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au
Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

 When i first went back to work 5 years ago i got in trouble for showing
a 
woman the wrong way to bath her baby. Instead of wrapping the baby and 
washing his face and hair, soaping him up then putting him in the bath,
i 
(heaven forbid) put him straight in the bath.  This was much to the
horror 
of the midwife i was working with who had been working in the same unit
for 
over 20 years.Cheers Pauline 

--
This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.

--
This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Pauline]

When i first went back to work 5 years ago i got in trouble for showing a 
woman the wrong way to bath her baby. Instead of wrapping the baby and 
washing his face and hair, soaping him up then putting him in the bath, i 
(heaven forbid) put him straight in the bath.  This was much to the horror 
of the midwife i was working with who had been working in the same unit for 
over 20 years.Cheers Pauline 

--
This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
Visit  to subscribe or unsubscribe.

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[gresch]

I have to agree there. 
My memories of my husband and I being "taught" how to bath our first child (6 
yrs ago) are embarassing. I hadn't ever bathed a baby before, but to be told 
that today we will take you down and teach you how, it clearly was a messge 
that we weren't capable. Then the instructions on doing the head first, blah, 
blah, blah. My poor deprived fourth child, if it wasn't for the school and 
kindy "show and tell" bathing a baby sessions, he wouldn't have known what 
baths were.

I know I'm being highly critical here, and I realise some parents will want to 
be shown, but really???
I also have a problem with the idea that these babies have to be bathed at all. 
Babies smell just beautiful all on their own, the "Johnson and Johnson" smell 
just gets in the way of this, not to mention the sensitivity these tiny new 
darlings are dealing with.
Providing women with an option and explaining that not bathing their baby all 
the time is perfectly fine too. 
and, Yes, I know that water emmersion is lovely and relaxing, but thats not 
about washing them.

anyway, my two bits worth,
cheers
Megan





From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Denise Hynd
Sent: Thursday, 3 March 2005 7:33 PM
To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au
Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath


I find the whole idea of teaching an adult woman HOW to bath the most cherished 
person in her life a reflection of our patriachial attitude and approach to 
women, birth parenting. and another step along the path to disempowered 
parenting or re-enforcing the need for outside experts in deciding how respond 
to your child 

Perhaps supporting a woman to bath her child as she can  in her home in her way 
is a little more respectful?



Denise Hynd

"Let us support one another, not just in philosophy but in action, for the sake 
of freedom for all women to choose exactly how and by whom, if by anyone, our 
bodies will be handled."

— Linda Hes


This message was sent through MyMail http://www.mymail.com.au


--
This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics.
Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.

Re: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath

[Denise Hynd]

I find the whole idea of teaching an adult woman 
HOW to bath the most cherished person in her life a reflection of our 
patriachial attitude and approach to women, birth parenting. and another 
step along the path to disempowered parenting or re-enforcing the need for 
outside experts in deciding how respond to your child 
 
Perhaps supporting a woman to bath her child as she 
can  in her home in her way is a little more respectful?
 
 
 
Denise Hynd
 
"Let us support one another, not just in philosophy but in action, for the 
sake of freedom for all women to choose exactly how and by whom, if by anyone, 
our bodies will be handled."
 
— Linda Hes

  - Original Message - 
  From: 
  Alesa 
  Koziol 
  To: ozmidwifery 
  Sent: Thursday, March 03, 2005 2:22 
  PM
  Subject: [ozmidwifery] newborn bath
  
  Dear List
  Updating policies at our workplace and seeking 
  any written policies that can be shared on bathing newborns. I doubt if there 
  is any but if anyone is aware of any written papers on this topic this would 
  also be gratefully received
  Cheers
  Alesa
   
  Alesa KoziolClinical Midwifery 
  EducatorMelbourne