Things to Know: Postpartum Check-up – When? Does It Hurt? What to Expect?

A postpartum check-up is a general and internal examination to assess the mother's health after childbirth. The doctor will check the body to see if the organs that changed during pregnancy have returned to normal and if there are any abnormalities. This includes screening for potential complications. If the mother had any complications during pregnancy, the doctor will also check whether those conditions have resolved after childbirth.

A postpartum check-up is highly necessary due to the significant changes that occur in a mother’s body and organs during pregnancy and childbirth. During this check-up, the doctor will ask about any symptoms that may have arisen during the recovery period before the scheduled visit.

For example, the doctor may ask whether there is pain at the incision site, if there is pus in the wound, if lochia (postpartum discharge) has an unusual color or odor, whether urination has returned to normal, or if constipation is an issue.

Even if the mother appears to be in good health and recovering well, a postpartum check-up remains essential. The doctor will conduct a thorough examination to check for any complications. If any abnormalities or complications are detected, they can be treated promptly.

For the question "When should you have a postpartum check-up? What is the latest you can get checked?"

In general, doctors will schedule a postpartum check-up around 4–6 weeks after delivery to assess the recovery of the cervix and pelvic organs, check for any abnormalities through a pelvic exam, and perform a cervical cancer screening if necessary.

However, if you experience any unusual symptoms before your scheduled check-up—such as heavy vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, abnormal lochia (postpartum discharge), unusual perineal wound healing, lumps in the breast, fever with chills, or postpartum depression—you should seek medical attention immediately rather than waiting for the scheduled appointment.

Do You Need a Pink Book for a Postpartum Check-Up?

For a postpartum check-up, it is advisable to bring any relevant documents related to your pregnancy and delivery. This includes your Pink Book (Maternal and Child Health Handbook) if available, as well as medical records from prenatal check-ups and delivery.

Additionally, you should provide details about any pre-existing conditions or complications during pregnancy and childbirth, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, anemia, or hyperthyroidism, to help your doctor assess your postpartum health more accurately.

It is also essential to take extra care of your body to promote a quicker recovery. When attending your postpartum check-up, wear loose and comfortable clothing that allows for easy changing before the examination.

Postpartum Check-Up: What to Expect

1. General Physical Examination
   The doctor will check your weight, blood pressure, and abdomen, especially if you had a C-section. Breast examination will also be done to assess milk production and flow.

2. Internal Examination (Pelvic Exam)

   • The doctor will examine the perineal stitches to ensure proper healing and check for vaginal inflammation or infections.

   • If there is an abnormal discharge, the doctor will investigate its cause.

   • The cervix will be examined for closure and potential lesions. A small wound is common, but it will heal over time.

   • Pap smear (Cervical Cancer Screening) is usually performed alongside the pelvic exam.

   • The doctor will check the uterus size to ensure it has returned to normal. If it is still enlarged, further tests will be done to determine the cause.

   • The fallopian tubes and ovaries will be checked for abnormalities such as tumors that may have been undetectable during pregnancy.

   Difference Between C-Section and Natural Birth Check-Ups:

   • C-Section Mothers: The doctor will inspect the surgical incision, which typically heals within a week. Pain may last 3-4 days, with complete recovery taking at least 3 months. Maintaining hygiene is crucial to prevent infection.

   • Vaginal Birth Mothers: The doctor will check uterine involution (whether the uterus has returned to its normal size). This process typically takes 4-6 weeks. A pelvic exam will confirm if the uterus is shrinking as expected.

3. Checking for Postpartum Health Issues
   If the mother had complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, anemia, or hyperthyroidism, the doctor will check if these conditions have resolved.

   The doctor will also assess for postpartum complications, including:

   • Fever or chills

   • Severe lower abdominal pain

   • Pain, swelling, redness, or pus at the perineal stitches

   • Bright red lochia (postpartum bleeding) lasting more than 2 weeks

   • Breast lumps, swelling, or pain

   Early detection allows for timely treatment.

4. Mental Health Evaluation
   Hormonal changes and stress from caring for a newborn can lead to postpartum depression. The doctor will assess the mother's mental well-being, ask about her daily routine, and offer support or treatment if needed.

Postpartum Warning Signs – Seek Medical Attention Immediately

If you experience any of the following symptoms after childbirth, seek medical help as soon as possible:

• High fever over 38°C (100.4°F) with no known cause

• Foul-smelling or bright red lochia (postpartum discharge) lasting beyond 15 days

• Severe lower abdominal pain, burning sensation, or pain while urinating

• Intense headaches or migraines

• Swollen, red, inflamed breasts, cracked or infected nipples

• Infected stitches from vaginal delivery or C-section, showing redness, swelling, or pus

These symptoms may indicate an infection or other postpartum complications that require immediate medical attention.

Does a postpartum check-up hurt?
No, a postpartum check-up is not painful. It is similar to a regular pelvic exam. It is recommended to have the check-up at the hospital where you gave birth and had prenatal care, as they have your medical history, making the examination more convenient for the doctor.

How long after childbirth should a postpartum check-up be done?
Doctors usually schedule the check-up 4-6 weeks after childbirth to assess the mother’s recovery and check for any complications. It is important to attend the appointment within the recommended timeframe.

Is it dangerous to skip a postpartum check-up?
Yes, postpartum check-ups are essential and should not be ignored. The body undergoes significant changes after childbirth, and a medical examination helps detect any complications early.

Can a postpartum check-up be done at a clinic?
Postpartum check-ups are typically conducted at the hospital where you gave birth, as they have your medical records. However, if visiting the hospital is inconvenient, you may also have the check-up at a nearby clinic.

A postpartum check-up includes both general and internal examinations to assess a mother’s health after childbirth. The doctor will check whether the body, particularly the organs that changed during pregnancy, has returned to its normal state and if any abnormalities are present. Additionally, the mother’s mental health will also be evaluated. This check-up is usually scheduled 4-6 weeks after delivery and is similar to a routine pelvic exam, causing no pain.

Mothers should not neglect this examination. Even if they appear physically healthy, internal issues may still exist. Attending the scheduled check-up is the best way to ensure complete recovery. For any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us via Line: @beyondivf