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Postpartum visits: Good for your well-being — and they help your baby, too

These post-birth check-ups help make sure you are in your best health — physically and emotionally. What’s good for your health and well-being helps your baby, too.

During your pregnancy you probably got used to regular visits with your doctor. But your care shouldn’t end when your baby is born. The 12 weeks after you give birth — called the fourth trimester — are just as important. That care begins with a postpartum checkup. Make sure to schedule this appointment. It’s usually four to six weeks after giving birth, and no later than 12 weeks.

The postpartum appointment is good for you and your baby too. By making sure you're in good physical and emotional health, you’re also helping your baby.

Here's what you can expect.

Physical checkup

Whether you delivered vaginally or by cesarean section, your doctor or other medical provider wants to be sure you're healing as expected. They also check your weight and blood pressure. This visit is a good time to ask any questions you may have.

Legs: Your doctor checks for swelling and any signs of a blood clot.

Belly exam: Your doctor checks that your uterus has returned to normal size. If you had a cesarean section, they check to make sure the incision healed properly and has no infection.

Pelvic exam: Your doctor sees how you’re healing. They can answer any questions you might have about constipation, leaking urine, or any bleeding or pain.

Breast exam: This is a checkup on breast health and any discomfort or post-pregnancy concerns, such as mastitis (an infection of the milk duct). If you're having any trouble with breastfeeding, this is a good time ask your doctor about these problems. Your doctor may want to connect you with a lactation (breastfeeding) specialist such as those found on the Florida Breastfeeding Coalition website.

Emotional well-being

You've probably already heard about the baby blues. The baby blues are a common reaction to changing hormone levels after birth. You may feel sad, weepy, or overwhelmed at times. Tell your doctor how you’re feeling and adjusting to caring for a newborn. If you feel unusually emotional or anxious tell your doctor right away. Especially talk to your doctor if you feel unable to care of your baby or yourself. These can be signs of postpartum depression, a common, serious and treatable condition.

Getting active again

If you were active before and during pregnancy, you probably want to become active again. Your doctor can help you make a smart plan to ease back into exercise. This can help boost your health and mood. If you were not active before getting pregnant, talk to your doctor about easy ways to add activity to your day. Your doctor can also advise you about resuming sexual activity.

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