1 MONTH OLD : WEEK 2 - The six-week postpartum checkup

Why you need a postpartum checkup

This visit is the last in the long line of checkups that started with your first prenatal appointment. Although practices vary, most doctors and midwives will want to see you approximately six weeks after you give birth to make sure you're recovering well, physically and emotionally. If you had a c-section, you'll likely see your practitioner a few weeks earlier to make sure your incision is healing properly.

You'll probably have a lot of questions about how your body has changed. And you may still be contending with some childbirth-related aches and pains. Make a note of your questions before your visit so you won't forget to ask them.
What to expect during your postpartum checkup

At your postpartum checkup, your caregiver will:

• Check your weight and blood pressure.

• Check your abdomen and breasts. She'll feel your belly to be sure that there's no tenderness and check your breasts for lumps and abnormal nipple discharge. If you're breastfeeding, she'll make sure you don't have any clogged ducts or the beginnings of a breast infection.

• Inspect your perineum and do a speculum and internal exam. During the speculum exam she'll check to make sure any bruises, scratches, or tears to your cervix or vagina are healing properly and she may do a Pap smear. During the internal exam she'll feel your uterus and ovaries, and check your vaginal muscle tone. She may do a rectal exam as well.

• Probably give you the green light to start having sex again. But don't worry if you don't feel up to it yet. Many new moms don't feel like having sex for several months (or more!) after having a baby. Your caregiver will talk to you about birth control options during this visit, too. Remember: You can get pregnant even if you're breastfeeding and your period hasn't returned.

• Talk over any concerns. You might also have some questions about what exactly happened during delivery and why. Even if your caregiver explained to you what was happening at the time, you may not remember everything that was said. Don't be shy. Ask again now that you're able to listen to and think about the information.

• Ask how you're feeling. Make sure to use this visit to talk about any emotional problems you may be having, too. It's normal to have occasional mood swings at this point, but if you think you're suffering from postpartum depression, ask for a referral to a therapist.

• Order lab tests (if necessary), and let you know when you should return for routine care, including any follow-up for your chosen contraceptive method.

Posted in: 1 MONTH OLD