A woman who just gave birth will always instinctively prioritize the needs of her newborn baby. But mothers need equal care, and ensuring mommy’s well-being will bring lasting benefits to her and her family. So even if things are crazy in your household, or you’re too busy or too tired, you should still head to your OB-Gyne for that 6-week postpartum checkup.
The World Health Organization recommends a series of checkups after giving birth to check out for any health danger signs such as: unusual bleeding, stinky vaginal discharge, fever, difficulty in breathing, edema or unusual swelling in body extremities, unusual headache, and pain in the breast.
WHO said “all mothers and babies need at least four postnatal checkups in the first 6 weeks,” where the mom will be asked about various things concerning her physical, emotional, and mental state.
Here are some things you need to discuss with your OB-Gyne at the 6-week postpartum appointment
1. Body changes and more
Your OB-Gyne is expected to check your birthing wounds (vaginal tear) or your operation scar if you gave birth via Cesarean section. The specialist will determine if the wound is healing properly or if you are prone to any infection. Your OB will also check if your uterus is properly returning to its pre-birth state, or if your pelvic muscles have regained strength.
According to WHO, all women should also “be asked about resumption of sexual intercourse and possible dyspareunia as part of an assessment of overall well-being 2–6 weeks after birth.”
New mothers must be also informed about her body’s recovery post-birth. This includes checking the gravity of postpartum hemorrhage, signs of eclampsia, low or high blood pressure, infection, and thromboembolism or blood clots.
2. Emotional state
New moms should be asked about her “emotional wellbeing, what family and social support they have and their usual coping strategies for dealing with day-to-day matters.” (WHO).
Postpartum depression affects at least 13 percent of women globally and is considered a significant public health problem. During the postpartum checkup, you may ask your specialist on what is usual after childbirth. Could crying bouts or breakdowns be due to lack of sleep or could it be a sign of a mental health issue?
WHO said women “and their families/partners should be encouraged to tell their health care professional about any changes in mood, emotional state and behaviour that are outside of the woman’s normal pattern.”
3. Nutrition and breastfeeding
Mothers can also discuss weight gain or weight loss. WHO emphasizes that specialists should advise new moms to eat a greater amount and variety of healthy foods, “particularly in adolescents and very thin women.”
You may also ask your OB-Gyne for any supplement you intend to take, as WHO recommends iron and folic acid supplementation “for at least 3 months after delivery.” You may also get advice on when it is safe to resume exercise.
Breastfeeding may also be discussed and your OB-Gyne can check signs of mastitis or swelling of the breast due to blocked ducts. At 6 weeks postpartum, you may also begin pumping milk (in addition to direct latch with the baby) because your milk supply is considered stable.
4. Family planning
At the 6th week postpartum assessment, women must be counselled on birth spacing and family planning. You may ask your OB-Gyne for available contraceptive options, depending on your lifestyle and what is safe if you’re still breastfeeding.
Added tip: A nice thank you gift for your OB-Gyne would be a nice gesture. After all, she made sure that you and your baby are safe during childbirth.
