Experienced maternity nurse, Jen David, shares what to expect and how best to support new parents.
Welcoming a new baby is often described as one of life's most memorable and joyful moments, but it can also be one of the most overwhelming. Sleepless nights alongside the pressure of caring for a newborn "the right way" can leave even the most prepared parents feeling exhausted and uneasy.
This is where a maternity nurse steps in, offering not only practical support but also reassurance, guidance, and a steady presence during those first few life-changing weeks. Far from being a routine job, maternity nursing can be incredibly dynamic and deeply personal. Every baby has unique needs, each family is different, and no two days ever unfold in the same way.
In this article, maternity nurse Jen shares what a typical day in her role looks like, from establishing sleep routines to feeding schedules. Jen offers an honest insight into the realities of supporting both newborns and parents during this important transitional period:
"No day is ever the same. There is always a curve ball that gets thrown in, so prepare to think on your feet."
A day shift usually begins early, depending on the family's needs. "I start whatever time the family wants, but usually between 6 and 8 AM," Jen says. The main priority is always understanding what has happened overnight.
"Getting an update from the previous night is very important, especially if the parents have been up all night or worried about feeding or sleeping."
This handover can come either directly from the parents or a night nurse, often including detailed notes and messages: "You need to know everything. How many wet nappies, dirty nappies, how much and how often the baby was fed. Bottle or breast. Expressed or formula. And medications needed or given, the time and amount is very important. You don't want to give a dose that's already been given."
Once fully briefed, Jen likes to focus on creating a tidy and organised environment. "I'll do a tidy round, ensure the nursery is stocked and cleaned, get clothes and bedding ready for the day. I might put a wash on, boil the kettle and check the dishwasher too."
Starting the day in an organised way helps everything run more smoothly, not just for the baby, but for the parents as well. A calm morning environment can reduce the decision fatigue that often accompanies early parenthood. When the physical space is managed and routines are set, parents are freed from the mental burden of constant small choices regarding household tasks.
This shift in focus allows them to preserve their limited energy for what truly matters: their own physical recovery and the vital process of bonding with their newborn baby.
As the day unfolds, much of Jen's work revolves around feeding the baby and supporting the parents where necessary, particularly in the early days, when everything feels uncertain, overwhelming, and scary.
"Feed the baby as required, and support mum with breastfeeding if applicable, including dad as little or as much as they want. Some dads want to be very involved; others may require more reassurance and guidance."
Every family dynamic is different. Some parents want to be hands-on from the very beginning while others may need more time to adjust. A key part of the role of a maternity nurse is to recognise this balance and adapt accordingly. "You have to mould yourself to the family's wishes and routine, while still offering your support, advice and expertise, without making them feel undervalued and inadequate."
This level of sensitivity, empathy, and understanding becomes particularly important in moments where the parents are struggling. "If I take the baby and they settle immediately, that's my opportunity to gently teach different methods. It's about guiding them kindly and patiently without any criticism."
When possible, fresh air can play a big part in both the baby's routine and the parents' wellbeing. "If the weather is good, I'll take the baby out for a walk, either with the parents or on my own, but always with permission."
Ultimately, every family navigates this transition at their own pace. Some parents find comfort in the security of home, prioritising quiet rest and bonding, while others feel eager to reclaim a sense of normalcy by resuming their daily routines and familiar activities.
A core strength of a maternity nurse lies in respecting these deeply personal boundaries. It is about providing a supportive, non-judgmental presence that honours the family's preferences while still offering gentle, expert guidance whenever it may be needed.
In this field of work, no two days look the same. Some days are filled with feeding, changing, and settling, while others may involve attending medical appointments or supporting parents through challenging moments.
"You might go to clinics, hospital appointments or GP visits. Most families want me there for reassurance, sometimes even without them."
Depending on the arrangement, levels of responsibility can vary significantly. "In some cases, you're supporting the parents. In others, the baby is your sole responsibility."
Maternity nurses often work long, varied hours. A typical day shift can last anywhere between 8 to 12 hours, while night shifts usually run from 9 PM to 7 AM. There are also 24-hour placements, where careful planning and frequent breaks are essential.
"I always encourage parents to rest once I arrive for a night shift. Some won't see the baby again until the morning, while others still want to be involved in the feeds."
Despite the long hours, balance is key. For maternity nurses, integrating scheduled rest is not just a personal necessity but a professional duty to ensure the highest standards of care. By managing their own wellbeing, they can sustain the energy and patience required to remain a pillar of stability for the families they support.
"Make sure you find the time to eat, drink and rest. You need to be at your best to care for a newborn safely."
For Jen, one of the most rewarding parts of the job is helping establish a calming bedtime routine. "Bath time, a gentle story, soft lighting and music, then a feed before settling them for the night. It's such a peaceful part of the day."
One of the biggest challenges, however, is building the parents' confidence. "It's about helping them feel they can do it themselves, so the baby doesn't become dependent on just one person."
Being a maternity nurse requires more than practical ability. It demands patience, resilience, emotional intelligence, understanding, and strong communication skills. "A tired parent might be short or snap at times, but it's not personal," she says. "They're adjusting to a completely different life and likely dealing with sleep deprivation."
Trust is built through consistency, kindness, and honesty. "If you don't know the answer to something, say so, and then go and find out. That's how you build respect."
This transparency is vital, as parents rely on their nurse not just for care, but for accurate, evidence-based guidance. By being honest about limitations, a nurse establishes a genuine partnership where parents feel safe asking questions, rather than feeling the pressure to project perfection.
It is also imperative to recognise when something is not right. "All babies are unsettled at times. That's normal. Recognising the signs of a sick baby is critical."
Developing this clinical intuition is a hallmark of an experienced maternity nurse. It involves observing subtle changes in a baby's demeanour, feeding habits, or sleeping patterns that might indicate a medical need rather than a behavioural one, ensuring that parents know exactly when to consult a paediatrician.
Maternity nursing is not simply about caring for a newborn. It is about supporting an entire family. From practical care to emotional reassurance, the role requires adaptability, compassion, and expertise in equal measure.
For Jen, being a great maternity nurse is as much about finding the right fit as it is about experience. "It's important to build a rapport with the family and make sure you're aligned. Don't be afraid to turn down a job if it's too far to travel, if they have a cat and you are allergic, or if you feel you haven't gelled well with them."
Looking after a baby, especially in the early days, takes a village. It is important to make sure that you and your village share the same views.
She also emphasises the importance of looking after your own wellbeing. "I make sure I get fresh air every day, read, listen to music and practice yoga when I can."
Despite the challenges, Jen describes maternity nursing as a deeply rewarding career. Witnessing the transformation of both the newborn and the parents as they find their rhythm creates a profound sense of purpose.
"It was one of the best decisions I've made. It's a privilege to care for a newborn baby."
