You gave birth to your beautiful baby! Congratulations! Pregnancy is finally behind you and you are spending those first few weeks getting to know each other. Transitioning to life after a baby isn’t easy! It can be isolating, overwhelming, and there are many unknowns. But despite it all, you made it through the first six weeks, and now it's time to visit your care provider for a check up.

During your physical exam, you can expect:

... a pelvic exam, including a pap smear, since this acts as your yearly gynecological appointment.
... a breast exam to check for any abnormalities such as lumps.
... your provider to make sure your uterus is shrinking back to it's pre-pregnancy size.
... your provider to make sure that your incision is healing properly if you had an episiotomy.
... your provider to check your incision if you had a cesarean birth.

Emotionally, your doctor will ask you questions to get an idea of how you're feeling. Even though it can be uncomfortable, if you're struggling, it is important to be honest so they can help you develop a plan. Postpartum mood disorders are extremely common, and there is no reason to suffer alone. Postpartum depression specifically, affects up to 25 percent of new parents.

Topics you might discuss with your doctor or midwife:

•   What are my options for birth control?
•   When can I resume work, exercise, and sexual intercourse?
•   Any questions about your labor and delivery
•   Any emotional issues you are struggling with
•   Breastfeeding concerns
•   When to schedule your next gynecological visit

Make your postpartum check up a priority! To make it easier, bring someone along to help you care for the baby while you are being seen by the doctor or midwife. This is a critical time for your provider to make sure you are adjusting well-- both physically and emotionally.

Northwest Pa Doulas teaches a "Your Best Postpartum" Class monthly to help prepare you for the fourth trimester.

Connect with us!