After you give birth to that beautiful baby of yours, everything seems to be about the baby. You understood that during pregnancy, your own health was paramount in order to have a strong healthy baby. However, now that your child is born, taking care of yourself remains a priority, like focusing on the importance of postpartum check-ups.
Your Post-Pregnancy Body
Many of the discomforts and bodily changes women have in the weeks after giving birth are normal. Sometimes, though, there are warning signs or symptoms of a health issue.
In the past postpartum check-up visits were limited to one visit 4-6 weeks after birth. Now the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that new mothers see their OBGYNs several times during the 12 week period with the first one being within 3 weeks.
The Value of Seeing Doctor Multiple Times
You and our doctor will review a number of issues common in post pregnancy:
Vaginal or Abdominal Pain Issues
Your uterus and birth canal should return to its normal pre-pregnancy size during this time. Any incisions will be checked for proper healing. Pregnancy affects the bladder and intestines as well as your whole body, so your doctor will check that all your vital organs are back to pre-pregnancy condition.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a normal part of post-pregnancy, but there can always be issues. Talk with All About Women if you are having any issues with pain. Mastitis refers to an infected milk duct that can occur causing severe pain.
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression is real and quite frequent after giving birth, so don’t be embarrassed to discuss any mood changes, anxiety, or depression with your doctor. Postpartum depression is a medical condition which can be treated.
Let your physician know if you are having bouts of sadness, frequently crying, excessive anxiety, panic attacks or irritability.
Preventing Future Medical Problems
If you had gestational diabetes or high blood pressure during your pregnancy, this can highlight future problems with these medical conditions.
Other Common Issues to Discuss
Many women have new issues after giving birth and they should be addressed with your doctor during these appointments.
Some of them include the following:
- Constipation and hemorrhoids
- Bleeding and vaginal discharge
- Weight loss
- Sex and birth control
- Incontinence
Postpartum check ups are designed to give your doctor a total picture of your physical, mental, and emotional health, so don’t hide anything that is bothering you.
Contact All About Women at (703) 437-0001 to make an appointment at our office in Reston and Leesburg, VA or if you are having any postpartum issues that should be addressed.