Postpartum Checkup

Caring for the mother is just as important as caring for the baby

After childbirth, a woman’s body undergoes major physical and emotional changes
A postpartum checkup is not just about “getting everything checked off”; it is about caring for yourself so you can truly regain strength in both body and mind

🔍 What is checked? Why is it necessary?

1. Assessing postpartum discharge 👩🏻‍⚕️

• Check for signs of infection or whether the uterus is returning to normal properly

• If the postpartum discharge has an unusual odor or is heavier than expected, further evaluation may be needed

2. Milk production and postpartum hormone changes 🍼

• For breastfeeding mothers: check for mastitis / milk supply

• For mothers who are not breastfeeding: assess hormonal changes that may affect the menstrual cycle or skin

3. Postpartum contraception 💊

• Discuss contraception methods that fit your lifestyle, such as pills, IUDs, contraceptive injections, implants, and hormone injections

• Some methods can be started immediately after delivery or after stopping breastfeeding

4. Pelvic exam and cervical cancer screening (Pap smear / HPV DNA test) 🧫

• Around 6 weeks after delivery is an appropriate time to begin screening

• Important even if you have no abnormal symptoms, so conditions can be detected early

5. Talking about postpartum depression / relationship with your partner / physical recovery ❤️

• Sometimes, women just want someone who understands

• The doctor will assess this together with physical symptoms to provide comprehensive care

👩🏻‍⚕️ When should you have a postpartum checkup?

• Within 6 weeks after delivery (it may be earlier or later depending on your symptoms)

A postpartum checkup is not just about “having the doctor check things”; it is about listening to your body again