u/Alternative_Dot7171

I’m about to give birth, so this doesn’t apply to me much. But when I told my friends that I’ll be going through public care they all acted in horror (honestly I don’t have PI with pregnancy so I didn’t care). After a bit of research, and being young and risk-free pregnancy, I don’t understand why someone would go through private - honestly, not trying to shame anyone. For private mums, what’s the reason you are going/went through private? Or is there any difference besides a better room afterwards?

My friend just had a baby and she asked me if I wanted to go and visit them at the hospital. What should I be doing before/ when arriving?

- ofc shower before going / clean clothes
- no perfume
- wash my hands as soon as I arrive
- hug my friend first
- don’t touch the newborn until she allows
- no kissing the baby
- make sure I’m not sick (ofc)
- I’m fully vaccinated (I’m about to give birth myself)

Is there anything I’m missing? Thanks everyone

Anyone started collecting colostrum at 37 weeks? I asked my midwife and she said: yes- at 36 weeks, hand pump is ok. Ok. Next appointment (different midwife) she said yes- at 37 weeks, no hand pump, just hand expression. I’m so confused now. Should I use the hand pump? Should I not? 36? 37 weeks? Online research says 36 weeks with hand pump (5 mins per boob is fine) but the midwife’s advice is confusing

Update: just tried (hand expression) 5 min each boob and managed to get almost 1ml in total (yay). My hands are VERY sore. I’ll definitely ask next appointment (38 weeks) if a hand pump is fine bc sounds much easier (according to TikTok haha)

Thanks!!!