All about postpartum checkups

During pregnancy, a woman focuses much of her attention on the childbirth itself and the health of her baby. Still, as a new mom, it’s just as important to consider what is going to happen after you leave the hospital with her new baby.

Many new mothers are discharged from the hospital and handed an appointment card with a date and time written on it. That card usually contains information critical to explaining the upcoming postpartum checkup.

We’re here to share a little more information on how to prepare for that upcoming appointment so it can be as stress-free of an experience as possible.

You may not realize it now, but leaving the house with a newborn isn’t easy. If you normally take 10 – 20 minutes to leave the house, you’ve got a lot more planning to do with a newborn. Also remember that Murphy’s Law dictates that the moment you strap them into the car seat, they will get hungry or wind up with a diaper in need of changing.

Once you get to the doctor, don’t be surprised if you get a few questions about your mental state. Your doctor will want to not only examine what’s causing you discomfort physically, but also emotionally. Postpartum depression is a real and VERY common experience for women. If you are having trouble sleeping or are experiencing other emotional challenges, it’s important to talk about those things with your doctor.

You may also be surprised by some of the advice you are given. Although you may not feel ready for certain exercises, your doctor or midwife may clear you for them. The important thing is to go at your own pace and don’t push yourself. As a new mother you only do things that you feel comfortable doing.

Take a deep breath, enjoy spending time your new baby, and don’t worry … a postpartum checkup is a piece of cake compared to those late night wake up calls.