Why Postpartum Care is Important…
A postpartum checkup after childbirth helps ensure proper recovery after the exhausting labor experience. Postpartum care is crucial because new moms can experience some health complications. Today, postpartum care is an ongoing series of checkups and not simply a single appointment.
What happens at a postpartum checkup?
Postpartum checkups are essential, even if new mothers are feeling great. These checkups are ideal for addressing any concerns or potential health problems. Ideally, women should have a checkup with a healthcare provider within three weeks of giving birth. New mothers should also have a complete postpartum checkup about twelve weeks after delivery.
The healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and check your blood pressure. If you had a cesarean birth, the provider could check on the incision to ensure that there are no signs of infection.
Pelvic exam
The healthcare provider will check your cervix, vagina, and uterus. You may have suffered a tear or cut at the opening of the vagina (episiotomy) during delivery. Your provider will check whether any tears or cuts are healing well. You will also find out when it’s safe to have sex again.
Checks for health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes
High blood pressure can cause problems during pregnancy that can lead to preeclampsia and premature birth. Your healthcare provider can perform a blood pressure test at a postpartum checkup to ensure it is under control.
If you have gestational diabetes during pregnancy, the healthcare provider will test your blood sugar. Check with your healthcare provider that any medication you take is safe for your baby if breastfeeding.
Vaccination status
The healthcare provider will ensure your vaccinations are current. Flu vaccinations can protect you from getting sick and passing on an illness to your baby.
Breastfeeding
If you are having problems with breastfeeding, a healthcare practitioner can help you find a lactation consultant. This specialist is trained to help you with breastfeeding. You can also join new mother support groups where women assist and support each other.
Postpartum depression
New mothers need to feel safe and open about conveying their feelings about their mental health after childbirth to a healthcare practitioner. New mothers can feel moody and blue shortly after birth and will likely feel stressed and tired when breastfeeding and caring for a new baby.
However, a condition called postpartum depression can result in intense anxiety, tiredness, and sadness that last long after your baby is born. This condition requires treatment if you want to care appropriately for your baby and yourself.
Last Words
New mothers with limited time may find it challenging to make it to a healthcare provider for a postpartum checkup and can breathe a sigh of relief because they can now rely on a concierge doctor to come to their home. Concierge Medicine in Costa Mesa delivers modern, convenient, and personalized medical care from the comfort of your home.
It’s important not to underestimate the importance of postpartum care. Checkups can give a complete picture of your mental, emotional, and physical health. They are vital for your and your baby’s health now and in the future.