Postpartum: First 6 Weeks After Childbirth

Your doctor will want to see you for a checkup 2 to 6 weeks after delivery. This visit allows for your doctor or midwife to check on your recovery from childbirth and see how you are doing emotionally. You may have a pelvic exam to make sure that you are healing well. If you had a C-section, your doctor will check your incision.

Your doctor or midwife will talk with you about birth control and find out how you're doing with breast-feeding. He or she also will ask about your moods and check you for signs of Reference postpartum depression Opens New Window.

This visit is also a good time to talk to your doctor about anything you are concerned or curious about.

• Keep a list of questions to bring to your postpartum visit. Your questions might be about:
  • Changes in your breasts, such as lumps or soreness.
  • When to expect your menstrual period to start again.
  • What form of birth control is best for you.
  • Weight you have put on during the pregnancy.
  • Exercise options.
  • What foods and drinks are best for you, especially if you are breast-feeding.
  • Problems you might be having with breast-feeding.
  • When you can have sex. Some women may want to talk about lubricants for the vagina.
  • Any feelings of sadness or restlessness that you are having.

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