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Postpartum checkup
postpartum checkup · 6-week check after birth · postnatal visit · after-birth checkup
A visit to the gynecologist after giving birth. The doctor checks how your body is recovering and answers your questions.
For everyone after birth, usually at 6 to 8 weeks. Sooner if something bothers you.
⏱ Duration: the visit usually takes 20 to 40 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Questions. Write down your questions: birth control, sex, exercise, feeding.
- Your baby. Ask if you can bring your baby, or arrange for someone to watch them.
- Tests. Sometimes a blood or urine test is needed. Your doctor will say.
What to bring
- Your hospital discharge papers
- Your pregnancy record
- Your ID
- A list of your medicines
How it goes
- The doctor asks how you feel, physically and emotionally
- Your blood pressure is checked
- Your belly and breasts are examined
- A pelvic exam is done, and any stitches are checked
- Birth control and returning to activity are discussed
- Referrals are given if needed
What you'll feel
- The pelvic exam may be uncomfortable, especially if you had stitches
- Usually it does not hurt
Afterwards
- If all is well, your doctor will clear you for sex and exercise, little by little
- Choose birth control. You can get pregnant even while breastfeeding
- Pelvic floor exercises help you recover
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Heavy bleeding that soaks a pad in an hour: call emergency services
- A fever over 38°C (100.4°F), or bad-smelling discharge
- A painful, red, hard area in the breast with a fever
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby: call emergency services right away
Common questions
When can I have sex after giving birth?
Usually once the bleeding has stopped and your doctor has checked you. Often around 6 weeks.
Can I get pregnant while breastfeeding?
Yes, you can. Think about birth control early and talk to your doctor.
I feel sad all the time. Is that normal?
Mood swings are common in the first days. If the sadness lasts more than 2 weeks, tell your doctor. It can be treated.