Lockdown is a tough time for many, but spare a thought for those who’ve given birth during this period.
By Katie Stevenson
Whanau Āwhina Plunket says more than 600 babies a week are being born which is posing unique challenges for parents.
New mum Shannon Caetano gave birth the day of lockdown but changed her plan, deciding to give birth at home so she could have both her mum and husband as support.
Many birthing centres and hospitals are only allowing one person during lockdown.
“I sort of didn't want to feel trapped so I just wanted the freedom of my health professionals my support people," she said.
Midwives are still able to do home visits post birth but Jacquie Anderson from the New Zealand College of Midwives says it’s not without difficulties.
“It takes a little bit more time to really work through is everything okay are they doing alright and with the loss of some of our social supports and social services not classed as essential just makes it that little bit more challenging to make sure that your family have got what they need.”
And Whanau Āwhina Plunket’s having to work with families virtually.
Nurse Philippa Cracknell says there’s a lot of pressure on parents during lockdown.
“We understand it's a tough time with little kids, even without Covid right, so those intensities and pressures those feelings of isolation and anxiety are only exacerbated, making that connection is really important to us.”
But the organisation says, for some people, there are silver linings.
“Partners staying at home when usually they'd be off in two weeks, so we are hearing some good stories where mums are feeling a lot more supported at home.”
New Dad John Caetano is certainly enjoying it.
“If she needs to pass him to me she can and if I need to change the nappy quick before a meeting I can it just makes it a lot more practical and I get to have cuddles as well.”
It's hoped cuddles will be on the cards with more people soon.
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