764ENHANCING POSTNATAL CARE EXPERIENCE: INSIGHTS FROM WOMEN'S EXPECTATIONS AND EXPERIENCES IN A MATERNITY UNIT SETTINGA comprehensive examination of maternity care revealed that inpatient postnatal care often falls short of women's expectations, representing a significant area of dissatisfaction. To address this issue and ensure a seamless transition from birth to home discharge, a study was conducted focusing on women's experiences and expectations regarding current inpatient care practices. Content analysis was employed to identify key issues and concepts shaping the postnatal care landscape. The study was conducted at a large maternity unit in the South of England, serving approximately 6,000 births annually, with two dedicated postnatal wards. Twenty women who had given birth either vaginally or via cesarean section were interviewed during their stay on the postnatal ward. Findings revealed that women's expectations of hospital-based postnatal care were influenced by various factors, including the hospital environment, staff attitudes, breastfeeding support, and access to necessary information. Research outcomes have prompted revisions in inpatient postnatal care practices, with plans for future publication. Women highlighted several areas requiring improvement, particularly in staff interaction and breastfeeding support. Inconsistent advice regarding breastfeeding and a lack of adequate support were noted, indicating a need for reevaluation of staff communication strategies regarding breastfeeding. Timely provision of information on infant care proved crucial in fostering confidence among women and their partners as they prepared for discharge from the hospital.Damisetti@gmail.comResearch832018Maternity care, Postnatal care, Patient satisfaction, Breastfeeding support, Hospital environmentDamisetti Santhi PriyaAssistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology , Sri Lakshmi Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences & Hospital, Osudu, Puducherry - 605502