The postpartum visit checks how the parent is recovering after birth, in body and in mood. Current US practice is contact within 3 weeks and a full visit by 12 weeks, with an early blood pressure check for anyone with high blood pressure in pregnancy.
Key symptoms
- Bleeding (lochia) that should get lighter over the weeks
- Perineal or cesarean wound pain
- Breastfeeding problems: sore nipples, breast pain, low supply
- Fatigue, mood changes, urine or stool leakage
- Questions about sex and birth control
What you find on exam
- Blood pressure, weight and vital signs
- Breast exam if there are feeding problems or a lump
- Abdomen and cesarean incision or perineal repair
- Pelvic exam if there is bleeding, pain or a bulge
Tests
- Depression screening with EPDS or PHQ-9
- Glucose tolerance test 4 to 12 weeks after gestational diabetes
- Blood count if anemia or heavy bleeding
- Cervical cancer screening if due
Treatment basics
- Contraception plan; very short gaps between pregnancies add risk
- Support breastfeeding or safe formula feeding
- Manage high blood pressure and plan long-term follow-up
- Update vaccines and set up ongoing primary care
Red flags
- Blood pressure 160/110 or higher, severe headache or vision changes
- Heavy bleeding, fever or foul discharge
- Suicidal thoughts, chest pain, breathlessness or a swollen painful leg
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Related guides
Sources: NCCPA PANCE Content Blueprint; NBOME COMLEX-USA clinical presentations; AAMC Core Entrustable Professional Activities (Core EPAs). Written by Making Synapses. Making Synapses is not affiliated with these organizations.