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Your 4-week MCH appointment - Information for Rainbow Families

Emotional Wellbeing

At the 4-week MCH appointment we focus on your emotional wellbeing as a parent.

To this page, we have included documents and link which can be used as additional resources to support your emotional health. One of the tricky things about depression and/or anxiety as a new parent is that many symptoms can look similar to what most people experience at this time e.g. feeling tired, a bit irritable or emotional, or worrying about baby’s health. To see if what you’re experiencing or observing in a loved one could be a reason to seek help, fill out a short mental health checklist. You'll receive a summary of your responses, and information about how to get support if needed. Note that the checklist does not provide a diagnosis. We encourage you to discuss the results and any concerns with your doctor or other trusted health professional.

Relationships Australia & the raising children's network have put together a whole bunch of tips for new parents/carers: 

Checklist | PANDA Tips for new parents New parenthood tips: non-birthing parents

In terms of mental health information and support, please also utilise the options below:

New parents | PANDA Wellbeing for LGBTIQA+ parents Mums Matter | Maternity Mental Health Care | Bulk Billed Psychology LGBTIQ+ families: services & resources | Raising Children Network Queerspace

Pelvic Floor Exercises

We acknowledge the gendered language in the following video and resources can be harmful for Trans and Gender Diverse parents. Please ensure you reach out to one of the supports on this page if needed.

In terms of your physical health, please have a look at the following pelvic floor resources:

Continence Health Australia Pelvic floor exercises for women | Working your pelvic floor | Pelvic Floor First

Handout information

Please find below the handout information for your MCH appointment, some of which can also be found on the Victorian Government's Better Health Channel.

Healthy relationships | Yarra City Council Maternal and child health - visit 3 - four week visit | Better Health Channel Adjusting to the challenges of pregnancy and early parenthood | PANDA Wellbeing and self-care | PANDA Understanding perinatal depression and anxiety Raising Children Network Childhood Vaccinations Ready, Steady…. FAMILY! - drummond street Family Foundations - drummond street Yarra Rainbow Family Playgroup - Rainbow Families Fitzroy North Dads Playgroup

Further Information

Additional City of Yarra programs and services can be found below:

Immunisation

Use our free drop-in immunisation service. See what vaccines are available and what to bring. Find clinic locations, session times and information for children.

Playgroups

For babies, toddlers and preschool children, as well as their carers. Playgroups are a place to play, talk, share ideas and connect with community.

Parenting information and support services

Yarra run Parenting Information sessions as well as linking parents and carers with Parenting Support Programs.

Storytimes and kids programs

Yarra Libraries supports early literacy development through the delivery of preschool programs, including Storytime, Babytime and Rhymetime.

Family Support

Find programs and services if your child has additional needs. See parenting programs, book financial counselling, get family violence help, join parent groups.

Childcare

Our childcare centres offer long day care, occasional care and kindergarten programs.

Other supports

For all general information about babies, young children and parenting, the Raising Children Network is the best place to start.

If you need to talk to an MCH nurse before your next appointment, please call the state-wide MCH line on 13 22 29, available twenty-four hours a day, seven days per week, or visit your GP if you have concerns about your child’s health.

Raising Children Network

Maternal & Child Health Feedback

Our service's continued improvement would not be possible without your feedback. We invite you to complete our feedback form. You are also welcome to contact us directly by email; [email protected] or by phone; 0392055599 and ask to speak with a Team Leader.