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by Harvard Health Publishing.
Your postpartum checklist
Here is a short to-do list of important things you need to do after delivery.
Giving birth is exciting — and sometimes overwhelming! Here is a quick checklist to help both of you in the next few weeks.
Schedule this visit for four to six weeks after giving birth. You can talk through any physical or emotional concerns with your medical provider. You'll want to get a routine pelvic exam and Pap smear at this time, too.
This is especially important if you developed any complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia. Some complications put you at risk for health problems in the future. You don’t have to wait until the postpartum visit.
Call Sunshine Health Member Services at 1-866-796-0530 (TTY 1-800-955-8770) to let us know your baby has arrived. Let us make sure your baby is covered and has Medicaid right away.
You may have done this before giving birth. If you didn’t, make sure you choose your baby’s doctor before leaving the hospital, as your baby needs to be seen within the first few days. Use the Sunshine Health Find a Provider Tool or call Member Services at 1-866-796-0530 (TTY 1-800-955-8770).
Eating well is especially important if you're breastfeeding. Drink plenty of water each day to help with milk production and minimize constipation. Avoid excess caffeine and alcohol and stay away from smoking and drugs. And ask your doctor if you need to take a multivitamin, iron or other dietary supplement. Eating a well-balanced diet is best.
Talk to your doctor about when you can safely exercise. Your body needs time to recover. But you may be able to safely start some movement sooner than you think.
Yes, this can be a challenge. Ask family and friends for help. And be specific! If you need a nap, ask a friend to come over and watch your baby for an hour while you rest.
Many new parents suffer from the postpartum blues, or "baby blues". This is usually brief, and might mean feeling mildly sad, irritable or worried. You might feel like you aren't up to caring for your baby. Sometimes these feelings can be the start of postpartum depression, a more serious problem. Let a loved one know how you feel. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your primary care doctor for advice.
It’s good to remember that Medicaid coverage for new mothers lasts a full year after giving birth.