Promoting the parent-child bond is essential for us

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Becoming a mother is one of the most beautiful and exciting experiences in a woman's life. The time before, during and after the birth is accompanied by many questions and uncertainties. At Bethesda Hospital Basel, every pregnant woman receives individual and personalised support and care.

Skin on skin is our philosophy - for over 20 years

New mums are often unsure about how much and for how long they should carry their baby. "Bonding" is an important part of our philosophy. We recommend that mums wear their baby skin-to-skin immediately after the birth and for as long as possible afterwards. The aim is to establish an intensive bond between child and parents right from the start," says Ute Richter.

«Having a child is an exciting event. At the same time, everyday life is turned upside down and lots of questions arise, such as how do I get it all together and how do I do it right?»

Ute Richter, Head of the Maternity Department, Bethesda Hospital

Of course, many young mums are also concerned about sleeping and are unsettled when their child doesn't fall asleep straight away. "I have the feeling that young parents are a little more worried these days," says the experienced midwife. She believes that today's flood of information unsettles many families. "I therefore always recommend listening to your gut feeling - that way nothing can go wrong.

What I would like to say, however, is that many mums expect themselves to be fit as a fiddle one or two days after the birth. However, the recovery phase lasts several weeks - and that's right, because giving birth is a "feat of strength".

«Bonding enables parents and child to build up an intensive bond from the very beginning.»

Ute Richter, Head of the Maternity Department, Bethesda Hospital

All-round carefree package at Bethesda Hospital

As handling a newborn baby is largely a matter of practice, every new mum is certainly grateful for professional support. We are happy to offer this support on request. "Even before the birth, we offer various preparation courses," says Nadja Stöckli, postnatal nurse and IBCLC breastfeeding counsellor at Bethesda Hospital. Midwife consultations are held from the 12th week onwards, where pregnant women can receive professional care and talk about their wishes and concerns.

«You should enjoy this time and get help wherever possible.»

Ute Richter, Head of the Maternity Department, Bethesda Hospital

Before and during the birth, our in-house or attendant midwives look after the women's well-being. After the birth, the new mothers stay in the postnatal ward for two to three days. Visiting times have been restricted during the pandemic for the well-being of mother and child, which has proved very successful. "The women who have recently given birth and their babies are much more relaxed and breastfeeding is also going much better. This allows the family to concentrate on getting to know each other in peace," reports Richter. Bethesda Hospital also offers a lot for mother and child after the birth. If you have any questions or problems with breastfeeding, our certified breastfeeding counsellors are available for outpatient breastfeeding counselling throughout the entire breastfeeding period.

Mothers can ask questions and exchange ideas at our monthly breastfeeding meetings. Our programme is rounded off with courses such as postnatal gymnastics or our popular baby swimming. Bethesda Hospital is also on hand to provide advice on aftercare from the midwife and other services.