Maternity and child health clinic visits
What happens at the maternity clinic during pregnancy?
At the clinic, the health and well-being of the pregnant person and the fetus are monitored, with the aim of identifying potential pregnancy-related risks.
Before your scheduled maternity clinic visit, please complete the forms related to your appointment in our wellbeing services county’s digital service channel, Lunna. Please register in Lunna as soon as possible to gain access to the forms.
After taking a positive pregnancy test, you can book an appointment for your first maternity clinic visit through Lunna’s self‑booking service. The first maternity clinic appointment is scheduled for pregnancy weeks 8–10. If you have not yet started taking a folic acid supplement, start immediately. Vitamin D 10 µg/day should be taken throughout the entire pregnancy.
With the pregnancy calculator(external link), you can find out your estimated due date and your current pregnancy weeks.
If the pregnancy is not desired, you can contact a unit that performs pregnancy terminations. Abortions | HUS(external link)
If you are using regular medication, please ensure that your healthcare provider is safe to use during pregnancy.
Booking an appointment:
Chat weekdays from 8.00 to 16.00 & non-urgent messages 24/7: Lunna(external link)
Callback service on weekdays from 9.00 to 12.00: 029 151 2400
The first visit to the maternity clinic is primarily carried out as a remote appointment in Lunna. The visit will take place at the maternity clinic if you need an interpreter during the visit.
You can book your first remote appointment through the Lunna self-booking service. Choose service Maternity and child health clinics first appointment, pregnancy weeks 8–10 (Remote appointment).
Contact the Lunna chat if:
- you are unsure about the duration of your pregnancy
- your pregnancy is beyond 8–10 weeks
- you need an interpreter for the appointment
- you have diabetes
- you have hypothyroidism and use thyroid medication (thyroxine) regularly
When booking an appointment, we will ask for the date of the first day of your last menstrual period, information about any previous pregnancies and deliveries, as well as your chronic illnesses and any medication you are taking.
Preparation for the first pregnancy visit includes completing the following maternity clinic forms in Lunna.
• Maternity and child health clinics- Background information questionnaire for maternity clinics
• Maternity and child health clinics - Substance abuse screening form – your partner should also fill in their own screening form in their Lunna account if they will attend the visit
• Maternity and child health clinics - Tuberculosis screening for pregnant clients
You can find the forms in Lunna under My information > Forms. The forms can also be printed and brought to the clinic.
Before every appointment, whether conducted remotely or at the clinic, you must measure your blood pressure and weight. There is a self-measurement blood pressure station and a scale in the clinic waiting areas.
It is recommended to stop smoking and alcohol use already when planning a pregnancy. Avoid unnecessary use of medications during pregnancy. However, essential medications must not be discontinued. At the latest in early pregnancy, confirm with your doctor that your regular medication is safe for the fetus and whether you should use an increased dose of folic acid. Note that during pregnancy it is recommended to take vitamin D 10 µg and folic acid 400 µg.
You can familiarize yourself with pregnancy nutrition recommendations at Pregnant and breastfeeding | Finnish Food Authority(external link)
Regular physical activity is beneficial for the expectant person. Familiarize yourself with the physical activity recommendations during pregnancy | UKK-instituutti)(external link)
Also explore the Women’s Health Village: Pregnancy(external link)
Prenatal diagnostics
You have the possibility to participate in prenatal diagnostics and early‑pregnancy ultrasound examinations, which are carried out at HUS units. The wellbeing services county offers a voluntary NIPT test to all pregnant clients who meet the criteria and wish to undergo the test.
Please familiarize yourself with the customer instructions Outpatient clinic appointments during pregnancy | HUS(external link) and Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County's information leaflet on NIPT testing(external link) before the first visit.
The necessary referrals will be issued during the first visit. To book these appointments, you need to log in to the Maisa(external link) system. You can only book appointments once you have received the referral, but you can log in to Maisa(external link) and get familiar with the system beforehand.
Your partner is welcome to join you for the maternity clinic visits.
Remember to bring an identity document to your appointment.
At the first visit, we will review together the background information forms you have completed. During the appointment, we will discuss your health status and health habits, as well as any previous pregnancies and births.
At the first visit, you will receive referrals for early pregnancy ultrasound, laboratory tests, and, if necessary, guidance for a glucose tolerance test.
Expectant families are offered the opportunity to participate in family coaching.
If the pregnancy began with fertility treatment, please bring the related information to the visit.
Laboratory appointment booking | HUSLAB(external link)
Maisa system(external link)
Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County's information leaflet on NIPT testing(external link)
Family coaching | Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County
For pregnant persons | Blood Service(external link)
Lunna
Before each maternity clinic visit, measure your blood pressure and weight at the clinic’s self-care station and test your urine sample for glucose and protein. The public health nurse will guide you in using the self-care station if needed.
At the first pregnancy visit, you received the EPDS mood questionnaire and the Everyday Resources of a Family Expecting a Child form, or you were guided to complete them in Lunna.
You can prepare at home for the comprehensive health check by discussing your relationship and family situation while completing the forms.
Everyday Resources of a Family Expecting a Child form (external link) ← link not working
The forms are completed a few days before the appointment and brought to the visit.
Everyday resources of a family expecting their first child(external link)
Mood questionnaire for identifying postnatal depression (EPDS)(external link)
At this visit, the doctor will discuss the progress of your pregnancy and any concerns you may have. A gynecological internal examination will be performed if necessary.
Remember to also measure your blood pressure and weight and test your urine for glucose and protein at the self-care station.
During the visit, we will explain how to apply for Kela’s benefits(external link) and issue a pregnancy certificate, which is needed for applying for the benefits. During the visit, we will discuss the approaching childbirth and the thoughts, feelings, concerns, and possible fears it raises. The Thoughts about the Upcoming Birth form for the birth hospital can be found on the HUS website.
Thoughts about the upcoming birth | HUS(external link)
If necessary, you will be recommended a laboratory-based glucose tolerance test during pregnancy weeks 24–28. Further information about the test is available from your public health nurse. Laboratory appointment booking | HUSLAB(external link) should be done immediately after the visit. Expectant parents with RhD-negative blood type will also receive a referral for fetal RhD blood group testing.
THL recommends the pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine for all pregnant persons. The vaccine is usually administered at this visit. Vaccinating the mother protects the newborn from whooping cough.
At this visit, you will receive a pregnancy certificate, which is submitted to Kela when applying for pregnancy benefits.
If the child’s parents are cohabiting before the child’s birth, an appointment for acknowledgment of parenthood can be scheduled for pregnancy weeks 30–32. Valid ID or passport is required.
Birth of a child and childcare | Kela(external link)
Laboratory appointment booking | HUSLAB(external link)
Family coaching | Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County
Confirmation and annulment of parenthood | Digital and Population Data Services Agency(external link)
Labor | HUS(external link)
Fear of childbirth | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
For pregnant persons | Blood Service(external link)
Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine (dtap) | THL(external link) (in Finnish)
At this visit, we discuss the progress of pregnancy and the emotions it brings and their impact on the well-being of the expectant parent and family. If you have undergone a glucose tolerance test, we will review the results.
RhD-negative mothers are given anti-D prophylaxis at pregnancy weeks 28–30 when the fetus is RhD-positive or the fetal blood group is unknown. Further information is available from your public health nurse.
Naistalo.fi(external link) (in Finnish)
For pregnant persons | Blood Service(external link)
Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine (dtap) | THL(external link) (in Finnish)
At this visit, we discuss topics such as parenthood, early interaction, childbirth, breastfeeding, and other aspects of everyday life with a baby.
RhD-negative pregnant people may receive anti-D immunoglobulin at this visit if the fetal blood group differs from the mother’s blood group. Anti-D prophylaxis is given at pregnancy weeks 28–30 when the fetus is RhD-positive or the fetal blood group is unknown. Further information is available from your public health nurse.
At this maternity clinic visit, it is possible to complete acknowledgment of parenthood if the parents of the unborn child are cohabiting. The acknowledgment document is completed and signed electronically at the clinic. Both parents must be present and verify their identity.
Links:
Confirmation and annulment of parenthood | Digital and Population Data Services Agency(external link)
For pregnant persons | Blood Service(external link)
Childbirth | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
Initiating milk production by pumping | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine (dtap) | THL(external link) (in Finnish)
Thoughts about the upcoming birth | HUS(external link)
At the visit, the doctor will discuss the progress of your pregnancy, any concerns you may have, and matters related to childbirth. A gynecological internal examination will be performed to assess the condition of the cervix and the fetal presentation. If you have an appointment scheduled at the maternity outpatient clinic, it will replace this visit.
During these pregnancy weeks, visits with a public health nurse take place at least every two weeks. At the visits, we discuss preparation for childbirth and breastfeeding, going to the hospital, and, if necessary, post-term monitoring. Usually, the natural onset of labor can be awaited calmly. Late-pregnancy follow-up visits begin at the birth hospital when the pregnancy has lasted 41 weeks and 5 days (41+5).
Contact the birth hospital if you have:
- Heavy bleeding
- Continuous severe pain
- Suspected rupture of membranes
- Painful and regular contractions (every 5–10 minutes)
- Reduced or absent fetal movements
- Sudden symptoms such as severe headache, visual disturbances, upper abdominal pain, or intense itching, for example on the soles of the feet, palms, or abdomen
Monitor your baby’s movements and, if you become concerned, contact the maternity clinic or hospital. More information: Is the fetus moving? | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
Hand expression of breast milk. More information: Initiating milk production by pumping Emergency services for pregnant and postpartum persons | HUS(external link)
Screening for rare congenital diseases in newborns | Sasken brochures | TYKS(external link)
Contact details of the Maternity Outpatient Clinic in the HUS Jorvi Hospital(external link)
Contact details of the Maternity Outpatient Clinic in the HUS Women’s Hospital(external link)
Contact details of the Maternity Outpatient Clinic in the HUS Hyvinkää Hospital(external link)
Emergency services during pregnancy and labour and phone services(external link)
All families have the opportunity for additional visits during pregnancy.
Additional visits and other necessary support are planned according to the family’s individual needs and life situation.
Postpartum visit will be arranged as a home visit or at the maternity and child health clinic.
During the visit, the mother’s recovery from childbirth is assessed, along with the family’s birth experience and overall well-being.
Breastfeeding Support Association | Imetyksen tuki ry(external link)
Compass – The First Weeks The first weeks | Kompassi(external link) (only in Finnish and Swedish)
Special nutritional recommendations during breastfeeding | Finnish Food Authority(external link)
Synnytyksen jälkitarkastuksen tekee jälkitarkastuskoulutuksen saanut terveydenhoitaja tai joissakin tapauksissa lääkäri. Jälkitarkastus tehdään noin 5–12 viikon kuluttua synnytyksestä.
The postnatal check-up is carried out by a public health nurse trained in postnatal care or, in some cases, by a doctor. The check-up takes place approximately 5–12 weeks after childbirth.
Pelvic floor muscle training | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
Physical activity recommendations after childbirth | UKK-instituutti(external link)
Breastfeeding support | Imetyksen tuki ry(external link)
Contraception | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
Sexual health | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
What happens at the child health clinic after the baby is born and during early childhood?
The child health clinic monitors and promotes the growth and development of a preschool-age child and supports parenthood. Matters related to the family’s health, wellbeing and parenthood are discussed at the appointments. At the child health clinic, children also receive vaccinations in accordance with the national vaccination programme.
In our wellbeing services county's digital services platform Lunna, you can fill out forms related to the clinic visit before the visit takes place. Register for Lunna straight away to get access to these forms.
Contact the child health clinic as soon as possible after the baby is born, already before you return home from the maternity hospital. During the initial contact, you will be asked about how the birth went, how the family and the baby are doing and what the baby’s birth details are.
Tell us also if more visits to hospital have been scheduled for you (or a midwife will visit you at home). Efforts are made to offer a home visit to families having their first baby, while mothers with previous children and their families have an appointment at the child health clinic.
The first visit is usually arranged within one week after being discharged from the hospital. During the visit, we discuss the birth experience as well as the well-being of the mother and the family after childbirth. The baby’s health status and growth are observed, and the family is guided and supported in breastfeeding and baby care according to their needs.
Consent is requested from both guardians for the implementation of the national vaccination programme.
THL: Guide to vaccinations for children of child health clinic age(external link)
Wellbeing for families and young people
Support for everyday life with a baby
Below we have compiled information and practical guidance related to newborn nutrition, sleep, care, development, and family well-being. The links provide support for common everyday situations and questions related to life with a baby.
Newborn nutrition
- Breastfeeding Support Association(external link)
- Responsive bottle feeding | Breastfeeding Support Association(external link) (in Finnish)
Sleep, care, and development
- Sleep of a 0–3-month-old baby | Finnish Sleep Association(external link)
- Good baby care | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Safe sleep for babies | THL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- Video: Handling techniques supporting a baby’s motor development(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
During the appointment, we will discuss matters related to the baby’s care and nutrition according to the family’s needs and support interaction between the parent and the baby. We will also discuss parenthood and pay attention to the mother’s health and recovery from giving birth.
Support for everyday life with a baby
Below we have compiled information and practical guidance related to newborn nutrition, sleep, care, development, and family well-being. The links provide support for common everyday situations and questions related to life with a baby.
Baby nutrition
- Breastfeeding Support Association(external link)
- Responsive bottle feeding | Breastfeeding Support Association(external link) (in Finnish)
Sleep, care, and development
- Sleep of a 0–3-month-old baby | Finnish Sleep Association(external link)
- Good baby care | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Safe sleep for babies | THL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- Video: Handling techniques supporting a baby’s motor development(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
The first doctor’s examination at the child health clinic complements the medical examination carried out at the maternity hospital. During the visit, we monitor the child’s growth and development and discuss everyday baby-related matters according to the family’s needs.
Support for everyday life with a baby
Below we have compiled information and practical guidance related to newborn nutrition, sleep, care, development, and family well-being. The links provide support for common everyday situations and questions related to life with a baby.
Baby nutrition
- Breastfeeding Support Association(external link)
- Responsive bottle feeding | Breastfeeding Support Association(external link) (in Finnish)
Sleep, care, and development
- Sleep of a 0–3-month-old baby | Finnish Sleep Association(external link)
- Good baby care | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Safe sleep for babies | THL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- Video: Handling techniques supporting a baby’s motor development(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
In addition to everyday baby care topics, we discuss parents’ mood and coping. The EPDS questionnaire is used as the basis for the discussion. Both parents complete their own EPDS forms in Lunna before the appointment.
Forms of maternity and child health clinic
Questionnaire on mood for identifying postnatal depression (EPDS)(external link) (in Finnish)
At this visit, free vaccinations according to the national vaccination programme are started, and the baby receives one oral vaccine.
THL: Guide to vaccinations for children of child health clinic age(external link)
Support for everyday life with a baby
Below we have compiled information and practical guidance related to newborn nutrition, sleep, care, development, and family well-being. The links provide support for common everyday situations and questions related to life with a baby.
Baby nutrition
- Breastfeeding Support Association(external link)
- Responsive bottle feeding | Breastfeeding Support Association(external link) (in Finnish)
Sleep, care, and development
- Sleep of a 0–3-month-old baby | Finnish Sleep Association(external link)
- Good baby care | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Safe sleep for babies | THL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- Video: Handling techniques supporting a baby’s motor development(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
In addition to everyday baby care, we discuss family resources and health habits using the Family with a Baby Resources form. Parents should complete the Family with a Baby Resources form and parental substance use screening forms in Lunna well in advance.
Forms of maternity and child health clinic
Everyday resources for families with a newborn baby(external link)
Vaccinations according to the national vaccination programme continue, and the baby receives one oral and two injectable vaccines.
THL: Guide to vaccinations for children of child health clinic age(external link)
Support for everyday life with a baby
Below we have compiled information and practical guidance related to newborn nutrition, sleep, care, development, and family well-being. The links provide support for common everyday situations and questions related to life with a baby.
Baby nutrition
- Breastfeeding Support Association(external link)
- You can start introducing solid foods when your baby is around 4–6 months old: Safe use of foodstuffs (external link)
- Responsive bottle feeding | Breastfeeding Support Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Let’s Eat Together – Nutrition Recommendations for Families with Children – Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL)(external link) (in Finnish)
Sleep, care, and development
- Sleep of a 0–3-month-old baby | Finnish Sleep Association(external link)
- Good baby care | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Checklist for children under the age of 1 year(external link)
- Safe sleep for babies | THL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- Video: Handling techniques supporting a baby’s motor development(external link) (in Finnish)
- Babies and Media Use | Mannerheim League for Child Welfare(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
During the visit, we monitor the child’s growth and development and take vaccinations into account if needed. We discuss everyday baby-related topics according to the family’s needs.
Support for everyday life with a baby
Below we have compiled information and practical guidance related to newborn nutrition, sleep, care, development, and family well-being. The links provide support for common everyday situations and questions related to life with a baby.
Baby nutrition
- Breastfeeding Support Association(external link)
- You can start introducing solid foods when your baby is around 4–6 months old: Safe use of foodstuffs (external link)
- Responsive bottle feeding | Breastfeeding Support Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Let’s Eat Together – Nutrition Recommendations for Families with Children – Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL)(external link) (in Finnish)
Sleep, care, and development
- Baby's sleep | Finnish Sleep Association(external link)
- Good baby care | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Checklist for children under the age of 1 year(external link)
- Safe sleep for babies | THL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- Video: Handling techniques supporting a baby’s motor development(external link) (in Finnish)
- Babies and Media Use | Mannerheim League for Child Welfare(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
During the visit, we discuss topics such as the child’s nutrition, continuation of breastfeeding, family well-being, and other important matters for the family.
Vaccinations according to the national vaccination programme continue. At this visit, the baby receives two injectable vaccines and one oral vaccine.
THL: Guide to vaccinations for children of child health clinic age(external link)
Support for everyday life with a baby
Below we have compiled information and practical guidance related to newborn nutrition, sleep, care, development, and family well-being. The links provide support for common everyday situations and questions related to life with a baby.
Baby nutrition
- Breastfeeding Support Association(external link)
- You can start introducing solid foods when your baby is around 4–6 months old: Safe use of foodstuffs (external link)
- Responsive bottle feeding | Breastfeeding Support Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Let’s Eat Together – Nutrition Recommendations for Families with Children – Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL)(external link) (in Finnish)
Sleep, care, and development
- Baby's sleep | Finnish Sleep Association(external link)
- Good baby care | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Checklist for children under the age of 1 year(external link)
- Safe sleep for babies | THL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- Video: Handling techniques supporting a baby’s motor development(external link) (in Finnish)
- Babies and Media Use | Mannerheim League for Child Welfare(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
The visit is arranged either individually or as a group visit according to need. Discussion topics include introducing solid foods, sleep and rest, motor development and movement, home safety, and oral health care.
The aim of the group visit is to offer peer support, sharing experiences, and an opportunity to meet other parents of 6-month-old babies. The group visit lasts approximately 1.5 hours. In addition to the public health nurse, representatives of third-sector organizations may participate, for example to discuss relationships, parental resources, and self-compassion.
At the end of the visit, each child’s growth is measured during a separate appointment.
Oral healthcare of a 0–3-year-old (link in Finnish)(external link)
I want my family to sleep better
Support for everyday life with a baby
Below we have compiled information and practical guidance related to newborn nutrition, sleep, care, development, and family well-being. The links provide support for common everyday situations and questions related to life with a baby.
Baby nutrition
- Breastfeeding Support Association(external link)
- You can start introducing solid foods when your baby is around 4–6 months old: Safe use of foodstuffs (external link)
- Responsive bottle feeding | Breastfeeding Support Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Let’s Eat Together – Nutrition Recommendations for Families with Children – Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL)(external link) (in Finnish)
Sleep, care, and development
- Baby's sleep | Finnish Sleep Association(external link)
- Good baby care | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Checklist for children under the age of 1 year(external link)
- First Aid Instructions – Finnish Red Cross(external link)
- Sleep training | Finnish Sleep Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Safe sleep for babies | THL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- Video: Handling techniques supporting a baby’s motor development(external link) (in Finnish)
- Babies and Media Use | Mannerheim League for Child Welfare(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
During the visit, we will track the child’s growth and development and take into account possible vaccinations. We will discuss matters concerning everyday life with a baby according to the family's need.
Support for everyday life with a baby
Below we have compiled information and practical guidance related to newborn nutrition, sleep, care, development, and family well-being. The links provide support for common everyday situations and questions related to life with a baby.
Baby nutrition
- Breastfeeding Support Association(external link)
- Safe use of foodstuffs (external link)
- Responsive bottle feeding | Breastfeeding Support Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Let’s Eat Together – Nutrition Recommendations for Families with Children – Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL)(external link) (in Finnish)
Sleep, care, and development
- Baby's sleep | Finnish Sleep Association(external link)
- Good baby care | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Checklist for children under the age of 1 year(external link)
- First Aid Instructions | Finnish Red Cross(external link)
- Sleep training | Finnish Sleep Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Safe sleep for babies | THL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- Video: Handling techniques supporting a baby’s motor development(external link) (in Finnish)
- Babies and Media Use | Mannerheim League for Child Welfare(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
During the visit, we discuss interaction, the child’s language and motor development, nutrition, and daily rhythm.
Preschool-aged children receive oral health examinations at ages 1, 3, and 5 at dental care services.
Dental care for preschool-aged children
Vaccinations according to the national vaccination programme continue, and the child receives three injectable vaccines.
THL: Guide to vaccinations for children of child health clinic age(external link)
If the parent who gave birth had gestational diabetes, please remember to attend a glucose tolerance test.
Support for Everyday Life of Families with Children
We have compiled reliable information and practical tips below to support the everyday life of families with children. Through the links, you can find information on topics such as child nutrition, sleep, development, safety, and support for parenting.
Child nutrition
- Eating together - recommendations for families with children(external link)
- Safe use of foodstuffs(external link)
Sleep, care, and development
- Dental care for children aged 0–3 years
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Physical Activity Recommendation for Children at Preschool Age(external link)
- Body-emotion education | Väestöliitto(external link)
- Sleep training | Finnish Sleep Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
Safe everyday life
In addition to monitoring growth and development, the visit includes discussion of topics raised by the parents. Key topics include rapid learning, development of independence, and speech development. We also discuss physical activity and nutrition habits of the whole family.
Prepare for the visit by completing the 18-month-old background information form in Lunna on behalf of the child.
Forms of maternity and child health clinic
Vaccinations continue according to the national programme, and the child receives one injectable vaccine.
THL: Guide to vaccinations for children of child health clinic age(external link)
Support for Everyday Life of Families with Children
We have compiled reliable information and practical tips below to support the everyday life of families with children. Through the links, you can find information on topics such as child nutrition, sleep, development, safety, and support for parenting.
Child nutrition
- Eating together - recommendations for families with children(external link)
- Safe use of foodstuffs(external link)
Sleep, care, and development
- Dental care for children aged 0–3 years
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Physical Activity Recommendation for Children at Preschool Age(external link)
- Body-emotion education | Väestöliitto(external link)
- Sleep training | Finnish Sleep Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
Safe everyday life
Fill in the preliminary information form for a 2-year-old in Lunna well before the appointment. During the visit, we will discuss matters brought up by the parents and about the child’s speech development, age-appropriate development of own will, and toilet training.
During the visit, we discuss topics raised by parents, such as speech development, age-related independence, and toilet training.
Prepare by completing the 2-year background information in Lunna on behalf of the child. Parents complete substance use screening forms in their own Lunna well in advance.
Forms of maternity and child health clinic
At the latest at this stage, it is recommended to stop using a pacifier and bottle, as this supports speech development and normal dental development. Tips can be found, for example, on MLL websites(external link) (in Finnish).
Special attention should be paid to dental health.
Support for Everyday Life of Families with Children
We have compiled reliable information and practical tips below to support the everyday life of families with children. Through the links, you can find information on topics such as child nutrition, sleep, development, safety, and support for parenting.
Child nutrition
- Eating together - recommendations for families with children(external link)
- Safe use of foodstuffs(external link)
Sleep, care, and development
- Dental care for children aged 0–3 years
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Physical Activity Recommendation for Children at Preschool Age(external link)
- Body-emotion education | Väestöliitto(external link)
- Sleep training | Finnish Sleep Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- A defiant toddler | MLL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Potty training | MLL(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
Safe everyday life
During the visit, we discuss topics raised by parents, monitor the child’s growth and development, and examine near vision.
Prepare by completing the 3-year background information form in Lunna on behalf of the child.
Forms of maternity and child health clinic
Preschool-aged children receive oral health examinations at ages 1, 3, and 5.
Dental care for preschool-aged children
Support for Everyday Life of Families with Children
We have compiled reliable information and practical tips below to support the everyday life of families with children. Through the links, you can find information on topics such as child nutrition, sleep, development, safety, and support for parenting.
Child nutrition
- Eating together - recommendations for families with children(external link)
- Safe use of foodstuffs(external link)
Sleep, care, and development
- Dental care for children aged 0–3 years
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Physical Activity Recommendation for Children at Preschool Age(external link)
- Body-emotion education | Väestöliitto(external link)
- Sleep training | Finnish Sleep Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- A defiant toddler | MLL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Potty training | MLL(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- The Wellbeing Services County of Western Uusimaa offers the Strong Families / Be Present for Your Child programme, which is a digital positive parenting programme intended for all guardians of 3-year-old children. The programme supports parenting skills and is available in Finnish, Swedish, and English. You can register for the programme after your child’s maternity and child health clinic visit via Be Present for Your Child(external link)
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
Safe everyday life
During the visit, the child’s growth and development are monitored, near and distance vision are examined, blood pressure is measured, and a neurological assessment for preschool-aged children (LENE) is performed. The child spends part of the visit alone with the nurse completing age-appropriate tasks.
Parents of children attending early childhood education have a discussion at daycare beforehand, and a summary is sent to the clinic with parental consent.
Forms of maternity and child health clinic
Bring the completed Voimaperheet questionnaire received by post. Prepare by completing the 4-year background information form in Lunna. Parents complete substance use screening forms in their own Lunna well in advance.
You can watch a preparation video together with your child: Welcome to the Child Health Clinic – 4-year-old!(external link)
Vaccinations continue according to the national vaccination programme, and the child receives one injectable vaccine.
THL: Guide to vaccinations for children of child health clinic age(external link)
Support for Everyday Life of Families with Children
We have compiled reliable information and practical tips below to support the everyday life of families with children. Through the links, you can find information on topics such as child nutrition, sleep, development, safety, and support for parenting.
Child nutrition
- Eating together - recommendations for families with children(external link)
- Safe use of foodstuffs(external link)
Sleep, care, and development
- Dental care for children under school age
- Literacy develops | LukiMat (external link)
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Physical Activity Recommendation for Children at Preschool Age(external link)
- Body-emotion education | Väestöliitto(external link)
- Sleep training | Finnish Sleep Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- A defiant toddler | MLL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Potty training | MLL(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
Safe everyday life
In addition to the examination carried out by the doctor, we will go back to matters that came up at the nurse’s appointment.
A summary of the extensive health examination will be sent back to early childhood education and care with the parents’ permission.
During the visit, we monitor the child’s growth and development and examine hearing.
Prepare by completing the 5-year background information form in Lunna on behalf of the child. We discuss topics raised in the parents’ background information form.
Forms of maternity and child health clinic
Preschool-aged children receive oral health examinations at ages 1, 3, and 5.
Dental care for children under school age
Support for Everyday Life of Families with Children
We have compiled reliable information and practical tips below to support the everyday life of families with children. Through the links, you can find information on topics such as child nutrition, sleep, development, safety, and support for parenting.
Child nutrition
- Eating together - recommendations for families with children(external link)
- Safe use of foodstuffs(external link)
Sleep, care, and development
- Articulation exercises for children
- Dental care for children under school age
- Literacy develops | LukiMat (external link)
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Physical Activity Recommendation for Children at Preschool Age(external link)
- Body-emotion education | Väestöliitto(external link)
- Sleep training | Finnish Sleep Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- A defiant toddler | MLL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Potty training | MLL(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
Safe everyday life
During the visit, we monitor the child’s growth and development.
Prepare by completing the 6-year background information form in Lunna on behalf of the child. We discuss topics raised in the parents’ background information form.
Forms of maternity and child health clinic
The public health nurse records a brief summary of the child’s health history for school health services. The next health check is the school entry examination conducted by student welfare services before or during first grade.
Student Welfare Services in Preschool Education
Vaccinations continue according to the national vaccination programme, and the child receives one injectable vaccine.
THL: Guide to vaccinations for children of child health clinic age(external link)
Support for Everyday Life of Families with Children
We have compiled reliable information and practical tips below to support the everyday life of families with children. Through the links, you can find information on topics such as child nutrition, sleep, development, safety, and support for parenting.
Child nutrition
- Eating together - recommendations for families with children(external link)
- Safe use of foodstuffs(external link)
Sleep, care, and development
- Articulation exercises for children
- Dental care for children under school age
- Literacy develops | LukiMat (external link)
- Child car seat | Traffic Safety Finland(external link)
- Physical Activity Recommendation for Children at Preschool Age(external link)
- Body-emotion education | Väestöliitto(external link)
- Sleep training | Finnish Sleep Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Smart Family | Finnish Heart Association(external link) (in Finnish)
- Children’s House | Health Village(external link) (in Finnish)
- A defiant toddler | MLL(external link) (in Finnish)
- Potty training | MLL(external link) (in Finnish)
Support for parents
- Everyday support services for families with children
- Crying baby and colic | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Help and support for parents | Family Federation of Finland(external link)
- Support for coping in families with babies | Federation of Mother and Child Homes and Shelters(external link)
- Families with children | Mental Health Hub(external link) (in Finnish)
Safe everyday life
All families can have additional appointments as needed. Additional appointments and any other necessary support will be planned according to the family’s individual needs and life situation.