Most women return to the doctor or midwife six weeks after delivery for the post partum checkup. During this visit, the doctor will examine you to see how well you are healing. You will have the opportunity to ask questions or address any concerns you have with the doctor.
You will have an examination of your pelvis and breasts. The doctor is checking to be sure the uterus has returned to its original size. If you had an episiotomy, this will be checked to determine how it has healed. If you had a c section, your incision site will be examined.
Your doctor will tell you if you can resume sexual activity. The purpose of waiting until now is to give the perineum a chance to heal after the birth of the baby. If you had a c section, you are still recovering from surgery.
Your husband may be anxious to do so, but you may not. This is very normal. Low desire is usually the result of being tired, hormonal changes or feeling self conscious about your body. You may experience dryness, especially if you are breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor for advice.
While you are on the subject, you may be asked about birth control. How fast your fertility returns depends on whether or not you are breastfeeding. If you are exclusively breastfeeding, it may take longer for your fertility to return due to elevated levels of the hormone prolactin.
Breastfeeding is not completely reliable, so you may want to use an additional method of contraception. Talk to your doctor about the options in your case. If you are breastfeeding, ask about which methods are safe for you and the baby.
Many women feel sad periodically after the birth of a baby. This is known as the baby blues. Some women have a more serious form of post partum depression. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you feel depressed. Talk to your doctor if you feel sad, anxious, irritable, don’t feel excitement or happiness. You may be asked about how you are doing emotionally at this visit. Answer honestly, help is available.
Weight is a common concern after pregnancy. I know it is for me. You may be surprised at how tough it is to lose the weight. The first time I was pregnant, I imagined my body going right back to its original shape after the birth. I soon found out it doesn’t work this way.
You will be able to resume normal exercise after your post partum checkup. Discuss your weight loss plan with your doctor. You shouldn’t try to diet while you are breastfeeding. Your body needs nutrition. Eat a healthy diet that includes 500 additional calories each day to your normal pre pregnancy diet.
A combination of healthy diet and exercise is best for losing the weight.