Postpartum refers to the period following a woman’s childbirth. During this time, the mother not only cares for her newborn but also navigates her own physical changes. Co-occupations encompass activities that involve the baby, such as feeding, dressing, and bathing.

Welcoming a new baby is often filled with joy and excitement, but it can also be overwhelming for new mothers. While much of the focus tends to be on the baby, it is essential to prioritize the mother’s needs, especially during this significant transition into motherhood. Occupational therapists are equipped to support new mothers through this period, drawing on their expertise in mental health, emotional regulation, ergonomics, and sensory processing, among other areas.

Postpartum checkups are vital for ensuring the well-being of new mothers during a crucial recovery period known as the “fourth trimester.” This phase extends from the moment of childbirth and lasts for 12 weeks, during which mothers often grapple with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, physical discomfort, fatigue, and emotional fluctuations. During your baby’s pediatric first-year check-ups often the mother will fill out questionnaires about depression, anxiety, and means for accessing vital resources and services.

These checkups are an important opportunity for obstetricians and gynecologists (OBGYNs) to identify and address potential issues that could impact a mother’s overall health. During a typical postpartum visit, your OBGYN will perform a thorough physical examination to assess your body’s recovery from childbirth. This may include a pelvic exam to ensure that the reproductive organs are healing properly and to check for any signs of complications such as infections or abnormal healing.

Additionally, your OBGYN will likely engage in discussions about your mental and emotional well-being, providing a supportive environment to talk about any feelings of anxiety or changes in mood that may arise as you adjust to life with a newborn. These comprehensive checkups are crucial in promoting long-term health and facilitating a smoother transition into motherhood.

Your OBGYN may ask questions about:

When do you have a checkup?

Postpartum checkups generally occur around six weeks after childbirth. However, this timeframe may not sufficiently address all the questions and concerns that can arise. As a result, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists now recommends that new mothers schedule multiple visits with their OBGYN during the fourth trimester period.

6 Week Checkup:

After six weeks, it’s generally recommended to schedule a check-up pelvic exam. During this appointment, your healthcare provider will provide information about various family planning and birth control options available to you, helping you make informed decisions for your future. They will also assess your mental and emotional well-being. The doctor will evaluate you physically, mentally, and emotionally. At this stage, common concerns might include sleep difficulties, aches and pains, and symptoms of the “baby blues,” though these can vary from person to person.

Your doctor may ask specific questions regarding any vaginal discharge, particularly if you have noticed bleeding or are experiencing cramps. It’s common to have some bleeding in the initial days following childbirth, as your body begins to heal and adjust. However, if the bleeding becomes heavy or persists beyond ten days, it may signal a concern that warrants further investigation. It’s important to keep track of these symptoms during this crucial recovery period.

Breastfeeding

• Mothers may encounter difficulties with breastfeeding. Your baby’s pediatrician can provide valuable guidance on whether your baby is receiving adequate milk and nutrients. Additionally, your doctor can assess any breastfeeding challenges you might be facing, which could be attributed to factors such as infection, hormonal issues, or painful milk ducts.

Family Planning

• It is recommended to wait approximately one and a half years between pregnancies. This time frame allows your body to recover, retain essential nutrients, and optimally prepare for a new pregnancy. Engaging in conversations about birth control or natural family planning can assist you in determining when you would like to have more children and the desired spacing between them. Birth control options may include pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), or natural family planning methods. Some family planning methods can also affect breastfeeding.

Intimacy

• Intimacy can change significantly after pregnancy and childbirth. Communicate any feelings of anxiety, fear, or concern regarding intimacy with your healthcare provider. It is not unusual to find that your desire for intimacy may not be the same as it was before giving birth. Additionally, physical changes such as vaginal adjustments, stitches, or scarring can alter the experience of intimacy. It’s important to note that intimacy should not be painful. If you are experiencing discomfort due to vaginal discomfort or dryness, pelvic issues, or emotional factors, it is crucial to address these with your provider or an occupational therapist. Remember, you are not alone in this experience.

References:

Banaei, M., Kariman, N., Ozgoli, G., Nasiri, M., Ghasemi, V., Khiabani, A., & Mohamadkhani Shahri, L. (2021). Prevalence of postpartum dyspareunia: a systematicreview and meta‐analysis. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics, 153(1), 14-24.

Fernandes, J. G. (2018). The Issue Is—Occupational therapists’ role in perinatal care: A health promotion approach. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 72, 7205347010. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2018.028126

Jones, J., Domanico, J., Peek, H., Lee, T. E., & Kern, L. A. (2020). Promoting women’s health and wellness. American Occupational Therapy Association.

Ramos, D. (2022, February). What to expect at a postpartum checkup-and why the visit matters. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/experts-and-stories/the-latest/what-to-expect-at-a-postpartum-checkup-and-why-the-visit-matters#:~:text=Ideally%2C%20you%20can%20have%20several%20postpartum%20checkups.&text=But%20it’s%20hard%20to%20cover,the%2012%20weeks%20after%20birth.

Wendt, T. (2024, August 8). What is the 6-week postpartum checkup? WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/parenting/baby/what-is-6-week-postpartum-checkup